Vary vs. Very: What's the Difference?
Understanding the difference between vary and very is essential, as they are commonly confused. Vary is a verb that means to change or to cause something to be different, often used when describing changes in conditions or characteristics. 'Very,' on the other hand, is an adverb used to emphasize the degree or extent of something, usually before adjectives or other adverbs.
How do you use the word vary in a sentence?
Use vary to indicate that something changes or differs from another thing, or that there is a range of possibilities. It is a verb that can be used to refer to changes in size, color, form, or other qualities. When you're talking about customization, personalization, or alterations, vary is the appropriate word.
Examples of vary in a sentence
- Menu options vary by region to cater to local tastes.
- The height of these plants can vary from two to six feet.
- Prices vary depending on the quantity and quality of the product.
How do you use the word very in a sentence?
The word very is used to add emphasis to an adjective or adverb that follows it, amplifying its meaning. It often strengthens the expression and increases the emotional response. Remember, very does not change meanings; it underscores the intensity of the existing word.
Examples of very in a sentence
- She was very excited to start her new job.
- This novel is very interesting and hard to put down.
- The sun was very bright, so she wore her sunglasses.
Vary and very definition, parts of speech, and pronunciation
Vary definition:
Vary (verb): To make or become different in some attribute or characteristic; to introduce diversity into.
Vary parts of speech:
Vary pronunciation:
Vary is pronounced as "/ˈver.i/".
Very definition:
Very (adverb): In a high degree; extremely; exceedingly; used to add emphasis to adjectives and adverbs.
Very parts of speech:
Very pronunciation:
Very is pronounced as "/ˈver.i/".
Vary (verb): To make or become different in some attribute or characteristic; to introduce diversity into.
Vary parts of speech:
- As a verb, vary is used to indicate change: 'The routine may vary weekly depending on the coach's plan.'
- The verbal form can also express potential differences: 'Textbook editions vary in quality and content.'
Vary pronunciation:
Vary is pronounced as "/ˈver.i/".
Very definition:
Very (adverb): In a high degree; extremely; exceedingly; used to add emphasis to adjectives and adverbs.
Very parts of speech:
- As an adverb to intensify adjectives: 'The cake is very delicious and has a rich flavor.'
- To emphasize other adverbs: 'She answered the questions very quickly during the quiz.'
Very pronunciation:
Very is pronounced as "/ˈver.i/".
Vary vs. very in a nutshell
To sum up, vary is a verb used when things change or differ, while very acts as an adverb enhancing the meaning of an adjective or adverb that it precedes. They are not interchangeable and have distinct roles within a sentence. Pronounced identically, these words can cause confusion, so it's important to recognize their different functions and usage.
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