Too vs. Very

Attribute	Too	Very
Intensity	Excessive	High degree
Usage	Informal	Formal
Emphasis	Emphasizes negativity	Emphasizes positivity
Colloquialism	Commonly used in spoken language	Less commonly used in formal writing

Definition and Usage

Both "too" and "very" are adverbs that are used to intensify the meaning of an adjective or adverb in a sentence. However, they are used in slightly different contexts. "Too" is used to indicate an excessive amount or degree, while "very" is used to simply emphasize the degree of something. For example, "It is too hot outside" implies that the temperature is excessively high, while "It is very hot outside" simply emphasizes the high temperature.

Intensity

One of the key differences between "too" and "very" is the level of intensity they convey. "Too" is often used to indicate a negative consequence or outcome, such as when something is excessive or undesirable. On the other hand, "very" is used to simply emphasize the degree of something without necessarily implying a negative connotation. For example, "She is too tired to go out tonight" suggests that being tired is a hindrance, while "She is very tired" simply emphasizes the level of fatigue.

Placement in a Sentence

Another difference between "too" and "very" is their placement in a sentence. "Too" is typically placed before an adjective or adverb to indicate excessiveness, while "very" can be placed before or after the adjective or adverb for emphasis. For example, "The movie was too long" and "The movie was very long" both convey a similar meaning, but the placement of "too" before "long" emphasizes the excessive length.

Usage in Formal Writing

When it comes to formal writing, "very" is generally considered more appropriate than "too." This is because "too" can sometimes come across as informal or colloquial, especially when used to indicate excessiveness. In academic or professional writing, it is often recommended to use "very" for emphasis without the negative connotations that "too" can sometimes imply. However, both adverbs can be used effectively in informal or creative writing to convey different tones and meanings.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake that people make when using "too" and "very" is using them interchangeably. While they both serve to intensify the meaning of a word, they have distinct nuances that should be considered. Using "too" when "very" is more appropriate can change the tone of a sentence and convey unintended meanings. It is important to understand the differences between these two adverbs in order to use them correctly and effectively in writing.

Examples in Context

Here are some examples to illustrate the differences between "too" and "very" in context:

• "The music was too loud for me to concentrate." (excessive volume)
• "The music was very loud, but I enjoyed it." (emphasis on volume)
• "She is too young to watch that movie." (not suitable)
• "She is very young, but she is very mature for her age." (emphasis on age)

Conclusion

In conclusion, while "too" and "very" are both adverbs used to intensify the meaning of a word, they have distinct differences in terms of intensity, placement in a sentence, and connotations. Understanding when to use "too" to indicate excessiveness and when to use "very" for emphasis is crucial for effective communication in writing. By being mindful of these differences and using them appropriately, writers can convey their intended meanings clearly and effectively.