Guide 01 / 200 6 alternatives 2-minute read
Better ways to say “Very good”
Two words pulling one word's weight.
i · Why avoid itTwo lines, no filler
"Very" is an intensifier hiding a missing noun. When your prose reaches for it, the word it's modifying is usually doing too little work. Reach for the sharper adjective instead.
ii · Before & afterDrop-in demo
Before
The talk was very good and the food was very good.
After
The talk was compelling and the food was memorable.
iii · The alternatives6 ways out
- 01Excellent neutral
safest general upgrade
The coffee is excellent.
- 02Outstanding formal
work, performance, achievement
An outstanding debut.
- 03Exceptional formal
above the bar — reserved usage
Exceptional craftsmanship throughout.
- 04Superb neutral
tactile — food, craft, views
Superb noodles; go early.
- 05Stellar informal
praise with warmth
A stellar quarter for the team.
- 06First-rate neutral
dry, old-school certainty
A first-rate hotel, full stop.
iv · Brew tipKeep this one
If you can delete "very" without losing meaning, delete it. If you can't, you're missing the stronger word.