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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.

Some big trends they’ve noticed this year include around 40 clown shows, big ensemble casts and what Neville referred to as “artivism,” tackling topical subjects and “using theater to change the world.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

"It's a big deal for us," Nathan said.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

The largest U.S. utility is about to buy Dominion Energy, a big peer with data-center exposure.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

In the case of SpaceX, the big promise relates to artificial intelligence.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

“Three bedrooms. A big kitchen. Even a fancy barn and pasture for Midnight and Belle.”

From "Will’s Race for Home" by Jewell Parker Rhodes




Vocabulary lists containing big


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