It’s a lazy amplifier.
“Very” can modify nearly any adjective, nevertheless it may not ship our meant message.
Placing it in entrance of a optimistic like “charming” or “type” or “beneficiant” could make it clear that we imply what we stated, however extra so.
However, positioned in entrance of an outline of otherness, it may push the particular person we’re describing right into a nook. “They’ve very pointy ears” or “They’re very midwestern of their strategy to an issue,” communicates that we’re highlighting and objectifying, not celebrating. We frequently do that when the amplifier isn’t wanted and even correct. It’s an inexpensive hack to remind folks that we’re not just like the particular person we’re speaking about.
If you happen to’re saying one thing good, it’s useful to decide on a memorable amplifier like “terribly” or “off-the-charts.” Or simply enunciate and emphasize your praise.
If you happen to’re describing somebody in a approach that labels them, think about why, and depart it out.
If eradicating an amplifier like ‘very’ makes the message clearer or constant, why not merely skip it?
Our phrases inform a narrative. Even after they’re lazy.
