‘Very’ is the most useless word in the English language and can always come out. More than useless, it is treacherous because it invariably weakens what it is intended to strengthen. ~Florence King
There are many editiors who will refuse to publish the word “very” in magazines, books and newspapers as it is unnecessary. You can usually use another word which conveys the same meaning but has a much stronger impact. Observe the sentence below:
“I was very pleased when my very nice sister gave me a very good pair of gloves. I was very happy because it has been very cold recently.”
Gramatically, this sentence makes sense but the problem is that it is rather boring for the reader. Every one of the very+adjective phrases could easily be replaced with another more exteme adjective which would convey the same meaning but in a more interesting manner.
“I was delighted when my amazing sister gave me a superb pair of gloves. I was over the moon because it has been freezing recently.”
This 2nd sentence has a much stronger impact on the reader/listener and would certainly attract their attention. Furthermore, it really shows how wide your vocabulary is which would result in higher marks in the writing and speaking sections of official English exams like First Certificate or Advanced.
Regular & Extreme Adjectives List
angry ---- furious
bad ---- awful, terrible, horrible
big ---- huge, gigantic, giant
clean ---- spotless
cold ---- freezing
crowded ---- packed
dirty ---- filthy
funny ---- hilarious
good ---- wonderful, fantastic, excellent
hot ---- boiling
hungry ---- starving
interesting ---- fascinating
old ---- ancient
pretty ---- gorgeous