interjection
very well
VEH-ree WEL
Very well (interjection) means used to say that you agree or consent, often reluctantly, and will go along with what has been proposed. Example: “Very well, we'll do it your way.”
interjection
1
Used to say that you agree or consent, often reluctantly, and will go along with what has been proposed.
"Very well, we'll do it your way."
"'Then I resign.' 'Very well. I accept.'"
adverb
1
In a highly satisfactory or skilful manner.
"She speaks Japanese very well."
"The talks went very well."
2
In good health or good spirits. Usually found in negatives and questions.
"He hasn't been very well since the operation."
How to use very well
Learner’s notesIn plain English'Fine, I agree' — or, describing an action, done really well.
When to use it
The agreement sense is formal or clipped; it can sound curt if said flatly.
Memory tip
'You know very well' means 'you know perfectly well' and usually introduces an accusation.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
very well then
doing very well
knows very well
may very well
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_____, we'll do it your way.
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 'very well' and 'okay'?
Both accept a proposal, but very well is more formal and often carries a hint of resignation, as though you are giving in. Okay is neutral and casual, and implies no reluctance at all.
Does 'very well' sound old-fashioned?
As a reply meaning 'agreed', slightly — it belongs to formal speech, service settings and period drama. As an adverb of manner, 'she did very well', it is completely ordinary modern English.
Can I say 'I am very well, thank you'?
Yes. It is the standard polite answer to 'How are you?', a little more formal than 'I'm fine, thanks'. Note that it is well, not good, when you are describing health.
What is the meaning of very well?
"very well" (interjection) means used to say that you agree or consent, often reluctantly, and will go along with what has been proposed.
