How to Pronounce "the very idea"
expression
ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈvɛɹi/ /aɪˈdiə
thuh VERR-ee eye-DEE-uh
ðə, ði/ /vˈɛɹi/ /aɪdˈiə
thuh veh-REE eye-DEE-uh
Definition
Used to show shock, disbelief, or strong disapproval of a suggestion, often because it is unthinkable or unacceptable.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈvɛɹi/ /aɪˈdiə
British English
ðə, ði/ /vˈɛɹi/ /aɪdˈiə
Simplified Pronunciation
US
thuh VERR-ee eye-DEE-uh
UK
thuh veh-REE eye-DEE-uh
Listen in Context
The very idea of cheating makes me angry.
She was shocked at the very idea that he lied.
The very idea that I forgot her birthday is ridiculous.
You trust him? The very idea!