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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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very system

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very system" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to emphasize a particular system, but without additional context, it is unclear how to use it appropriately. Example: "The very system we rely on is failing us."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Hence was born the very system Mr. Bloomberg decries.

News & Media

The New York Times

The criminalization of politics undermines our very system".

News & Media

The New York Times

It was a bold attack against the very system that is deciding his fate.

News & Media

The Guardian

All of us exist within the very system we hope to change.

They are symbols for the wonders of the very system they're so worked up about.

News & Media

The New York Times

He was exploiting the very system he had served as a Komsomol leader.

News & Media

The New Yorker

There it fell victim in the very system it tried to undermine.

The power of sanctions springs from the very system of international agreements that Mr. Trump rejects.

News & Media

The New York Times

As clients flocked to him, however, he began questioning the very system that was making them (and him) rich.

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Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Might this watered-down feminism serve the very system that feminists should be fighting to dismantle?

They set up the very system that came apart.

News & Media

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "very system" with more precise language to enhance clarity, such as "specific system" or "particular system."

Common error

Avoid using "very system" merely as an intensifier; this can weaken your writing. Instead, clearly identify the system and its unique characteristics.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

87%

Authority and reliability

3.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very system" functions primarily as a determiner followed by a noun. Ludwig AI indicates that it can emphasize the noun "system", but is often grammatically weak. This can be improved by using stronger adjectives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "very system" is frequently used across diverse sources, particularly in news and media, it suffers from grammatical weakness and a lack of clear emphasis. Ludwig AI advises that it often does not contribute significantly to the meaning and can be replaced with more descriptive and accurate alternatives. For improved clarity, consider using phrases like "specific system", "particular system", or other contextually relevant terms. Although "very system" is common, prioritizing precision will enhance your writing and more effectively convey your intended meaning.

FAQs

How can I improve clarity when using the phrase "very system"?

To enhance clarity, replace "very system" with more specific terms like "specific system" or "particular system". These alternatives provide a clearer reference.

What are some alternatives to using "very system" in writing?

Depending on the context, you can substitute "very system" with phrases such as "exact system", "actual system", or "precise mechanism".

Is there a risk of ambiguity when using the phrase "very system"?

Yes, "very system" can be ambiguous. It's better to provide context by specifying which system you are referring to, or use phrases such as "that specific setup".

How does "the current framework" differ in meaning from "very system"?

"The current framework" focuses on the existing structural arrangement, while "very system" is intended to add emphasis but is often grammatically weak and less clear. Use "the current framework" to discuss contemporary arrangements.

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Source & Trust

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Authority and reliability

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Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: