The Artistry of Vocabulary: Beyond 'Very'

By Simon Macartney | Empire English Online

Master elegant English vocabulary from A2 to C2

'Very' is the crutch of basic English—the word that makes your speech sound repetitive and unrefined. Whether you're preparing for Cambridge exams or striving for sophisticated, native-like expression, The Artistry of Vocabulary: Beyond 'Very' gives you the comprehensive, level-appropriate guidance you need.

What's inside:

• Complete CEFR coverage — Systematically organised from A2 Elementary through C2 Proficiency, with 80 elegant alternatives to 'very + adjective' so you study exactly what's appropriate for your level
• Clear explanations — Every alternative explained with precise meanings, pronunciation guides, contextual usage tips, and authentic example sentences
• Common error alerts — Learn when to use each word and, crucially, when to avoid it
• Practice activities with answers — Cambridge-style exercises at every level to test and consolidate your learning
• Practice-ready format — Ideal for self-study, classroom use, or exam preparation

Created by a Cambridge Exam expert

Written by Simon Macartney, CEO & Founder of Empire English Online. An experienced materials writer with over 15 years of international teaching experience. Every entry reflects the precision and accuracy that exams demand. Perfect for Cambridge or IELTS exam preparation.

Transform your English from very good to exceptional.