Learn about the difference between the homophones: vary and very

Definitions

vary

Vary is a verb that means to differ or change from something else in quality, amount, or degree.

Example

The prices of houses vary depending on their location.

Example

The flavor of the soup will vary depending on the ingredients used.

very

Very is an adverb that is used to emphasize the degree or extent of something. It can also be used to mean 'true' or 'exact'.

Example

I am very happy to see you.

Example

That is the very thing I was looking for.

Tips To Remember the Differences

Here are a few tips to easily distinguish the difference between these words while keeping in mind the description we've provided:

To remember the difference between these two words, think of vary as meaning 'to change' and very as meaning 'extremely' or 'precise'.