VERY NEARLY Meaning and
Definition
-
The phrase "very nearly" is an idiomatic expression used to indicate a state of extreme proximity or closeness to achieving something or reaching a particular outcome. It denotes a situation when an event or action falls just short of the desired result, being very close to achieving the objective or outcome, but ultimately falling slightly short.
"Very nearly" implies a high degree of approximation, nearly touching or encompassing the intended goal, but not quite achieving it. It signifies a situation where there is a mere hair's breadth of separation, just short of being considered a complete success.
This phrase encapsulates a sense of great effort and determination put forth to accomplish something, and acknowledges the proximity of success even in the face of failure. It conveys that the desired outcome or goal is within reach, but circumstances may have hindered its complete realization.
For instance, one might say "I very nearly won the race" to signify that they came very close to being the victor, but were surpassed by a tiny margin. In this sense, "very nearly" highlights the narrow margin between triumph and failure, emphasizing the close proximity to success.
Overall, "very nearly" captures the essence of being extremely close to achieving a desired goal, but ultimately falling just short due to minor factors or circumstances.
Common Misspellings for VERY NEARLY
- cery nearly
- bery nearly
- gery nearly
- fery nearly
- vwry nearly
- vsry nearly
- vdry nearly
- vrry nearly
- v4ry nearly
- v3ry nearly
- veey nearly
- vedy nearly
- vefy nearly
- vety nearly
- ve5y nearly
- ve4y nearly
- vert nearly
- verg nearly
- verh nearly
- veru nearly
Etymology of VERY NEARLY
The word "very nearly" is a phrase rather than a single word. "Very" is an adverb used to intensify the meaning of an adjective or adverb, while "nearly" is an adverb indicating "almost" or "not quite".
However, if we examine the etymology of the individual words, we can find some interesting origins.
- "Very" has its roots in the Old English word "fǣ̄r" or "feor", which meant "true" or "real". Over time, it evolved into the Middle English word "verai", taking on the meaning of "truly" or "exactly". Eventually, it transformed into the modern English "very" and acquired the sense of intensity or emphasis that it holds today.
- "Nearly" originated from the Middle English word "ner", which meant "close" or "narrow".
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
