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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
your very self
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "your very self" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the essence or true nature of a person, often in a reflective or philosophical context. Example: "In order to find true happiness, one must first understand and accept your very self."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Wiki
Academia
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
6 human-written examples
(I will not mention that you owe me your very self). 20 Yes brother, let me have this benefit from you in the Lord!
Academia
That's how bad his gaffe was: you should re-evaluate not just your election picks, but your very self.
News & Media
Health facilities are also not readily available if your parents or guardians or your very self can't afford them.
News & Media
Consider, for a moment, if you can, exactly how it feels to be lifted from your very self, away from the very thing that ties you to the earth.
News & Media
People might think your very self centered which is not cool.
Wiki
Therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness based cognitive therapy (MCBT) can help you to listen to the thoughts in an abstract, objective way without associating them with your very self.
Wiki
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
54 human-written examples
It's a mini vacation and you will discover your own very self.
Wiki
And while it is hard to stand up for what you believe in and to be your whole self, doing so is part of what defines your very best self.
Wiki
"I am not a good self-salesman," he wrote to Morrissey, "but I can confidently boast an encyclopaedic knowledge of the chord structures, dynamics etc of Johnny's contributions to date … Being musically associated with your very good self would signify the very apex of my crusade for immortality".
News & Media
Find the best time to reschedule to ensure you exhibit your very best self.
News & Media
But when you find the heart of your story, the kernel of your unique experience that represents your very best self, the story will leap off the page.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "your very self" when you want to emphasize the core essence or true nature of someone, often in a context of self-reflection or deep understanding.
Common error
Avoid using "your very self" in everyday conversation. The phrase carries a weight of importance that can sound overly dramatic or pretentious in casual settings.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "your very self" functions as a possessive determiner ('your') modifying an adjective ('very') that intensifies the noun ('self'). It refers to the core identity or essence of an individual. Ludwig AI confirms this is a correct and usable expression.
Frequent in
News & Media
33%
Wiki
33%
Academia
17%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Science
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "your very self" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to emphasize the core essence or true nature of an individual. While Ludwig examples are limited, it appears most frequently in News & Media and Wiki sources. The phrase is best used in contexts that call for introspection or a deep understanding of one's identity, and should be avoided in overly casual conversations. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, suggesting it's a valuable tool for expressing authentic self-awareness.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
Your essential self
Emphasizes the core, unchanging aspects of one's identity.
Your true nature
Focuses on the inherent qualities and characteristics that define you.
Your inner being
Highlights the internal, spiritual, or emotional aspects of self.
Your authentic self
Stresses genuineness and alignment with one's values and beliefs.
Your core identity
Identifies the fundamental beliefs, values, and characteristics that make up who you are.
Your deepest self
Suggests exploring the most profound and intimate aspects of your personality.
Your intrinsic self
Highlights the inherent and natural part of you.
Your inner self
Similar to 'inner being', this emphasizes the internal aspects of self.
Your real you
Simple and direct way to refer to one's genuine personality.
Your essential being
Similar to 'essential self', focusing on the core of your existence.
FAQs
What does the phrase "your very self" mean?
The phrase "your very self" refers to your essential being, core identity, or true nature. It's often used to emphasize the importance of self-awareness and authenticity.
When is it appropriate to use the phrase "your very self"?
It's appropriate to use "your very self" in contexts where you want to emphasize self-discovery, authenticity, or the inherent qualities of a person. It's often found in philosophical, spiritual, or deeply personal discussions.
What are some alternatives to "your very self"?
Alternatives include "your true self", "your authentic self", or "your essential being", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
How can I use "your very self" in a sentence?
You might say, "To truly succeed, you must first understand and accept "your very self"." or "The journey to enlightenment begins with recognizing the divinity within "your very self".
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested