Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

big

[big] / bɪg /






Usage

What are other ways to say big? In reference to the size and extent of concrete objects, big is the most general and most colloquial word, large is somewhat more formal, and great is highly formal and even poetic, suggesting also that the object is notable or imposing: a big tree; a large tree; a great oak; a big field; a large field; great plains. When the reference is to degree or a quality, great is the usual word: great beauty; great mistake; great surprise; although big sometimes alternates with it in colloquial style: a big mistake; a big surprise; large is usually not used in reference to degree, but may be used in a quantitative reference: a large number (great number).

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"The whole thing has been a big shock."

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

Messi and Mbappé’s outperformance meant big payouts—at Flutter’s expense.

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

Some big companies have started to express anxiety.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 11, 2026

When San Antonio’s big man Victor Wembanyama pointed to his temple after goading a Knick into a cheap foul, the taunt was clear: I’m in your head, buddy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

It could be the neon-green paper it’s printed on, or the big, bold font.

From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold




Vocabulary lists containing big


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "big" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com