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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.

Women have a tendency to talk themselves “out of the big jobs,” and she didn’t want that to happen to her.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

Other clubs like Everton have recently created a collection with LA brand Anti Social Social Club, while Manchester United's The Stone Roses collection with Adidas has been a big hit with fans.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

“But they seem to have even more camaraderie and chemistry, so we’re just big fans of them personally and athletically.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

It was a big part of the reason why gold prices began a relatively steady climb in 2022 to repeatedly reach fresh record highs.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

My parents added flimsy privacy walls, cutting a big room in twos or threes, each the size of a walk-in closet.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith