The Correct Way to Use 'We Enjoyed Very Much'
The phrase “We enjoyed very much” is often deemed incorrect in English grammar, as it appears incomplete or lacking in context. In English, like in many languages, it's essential to have a proper sentence structure to convey the intended meaning effectively. This article will explore the correct usage of the phrase “enjoyed very much” and discuss the importance of including direct objects and intensifiers in your sentences.
Grammatical Structure and Usage
The correct form of the phrase would be either:
We enjoyed it very much.
We enjoyed the event very much.
We enjoyed that meal very much.
These revised forms make the sentence complete and clear. Adding a direct object or specifying what was enjoyed helps to point the sentence towards the correct meaning.
Necessity of an Object
When using the phrase “enjoyed very much,” it’s crucial to include an object. Without an object, the sentence may sound incomplete or awkward:
We enjoyed very much. - Not grammatically correct and feels incomplete
A native English speaker would naturally add an object to complete the sentence:
We enjoyed the evening very much. - Better and more appropriate
We enjoyed that meal very much. - Also clear and appropriate
We enjoyed that hot night out in the desert whilst dancing with camels very very much. - Fine but still needs an object for clarity
The inclusion of the object ensures the sentence has a clear focal point, but it also avoids the ambiguity that can come with the phrase “enjoyed very much” without it.
Importance of Intensifiers
In English, the intensifier “very” is commonly used to emphasize the strength of the verb. When using “enjoyed very much,” the phrase “much” often takes the role of intensity:
We enjoyed ourselves much. - Not often used in everyday speech
A more natural way to express intensity would be:
We enjoyed ourselves so much.
We enjoyed ourselves very much.
We enjoyed ourselves a lot.
In these examples, “very” or “so” intensifies the verb “enjoyed,” making the sentence more natural and understandable for English speakers.
Historical Usage
While the current usage of “enjoyed very much” may be considered imperfect, there has been historical variation in how this phrase was used:
We much enjoyed ourselves. - An old-fashioned construction, still used in some contexts
The cake she brought was much enjoyed. - Another example of this old-fashioned construction
These examples highlight that language evolves, and what might have been considered correct in the past may not align with contemporary usage.
Conclusion
Understanding the correct way to use “enjoyed very much” and its variations is essential for clear and effective communication in the English language. By including direct objects and intensifiers, you can make your sentences more understandable and natural. Whether you are writing a formal document or engaging in casual conversation, mindful use of language will enhance your communication.