very good
8 synonyms and 3 antonyms for very good, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Of a high standard, clearly better than average but short of excellent.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. adjective
Of a high standard, clearly better than average but short of excellent.
“The food was very good, though the service was slow.”
Opposites
2. interjection formal
Used to signal that you accept an instruction or agree to do as asked, often formally or by a servant, soldier or subordinate.
“'Bring the car round at six.' 'Very good, sir.'”
How to use very good
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Neutral as praise. As an interjection meaning 'yes, I'll do it' it sounds formal or old-fashioned.
Frequently asked questions
Is very good stronger than good?
Yes, but not by much. Very good sits above good and below excellent, outstanding or superb. In reviews and school reports it usually signals solid quality with some room left at the top.
What can I say instead of very good?
Choose a single stronger word rather than adding 'very': excellent, superb, outstanding, first-rate, terrific or exceptional. Writers are generally advised to replace very plus an adjective with one precise adjective.
Is 'very good' rude when someone says it to you?
It can be, depending on tone. Said warmly it is praise; said flatly to an adult it can sound like a teacher congratulating a child, which comes across as condescending.