great
Usage
What are other ways to say great?
In reference to the size and extent of concrete objects, great is highly formal and even poetic, suggesting also that the object is notable or imposing, large is only somewhat formal, and big is the most general and most colloquial word: a great oak; a large tree; a big tree; great plains; a large field; a big field. 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.
Even punishing reviews for the show’s long-delayed third season seem unlikely to prevent more recognition of what remains a great performance.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026
"It really makes you appreciate what's there," she said, adding that "you see something different every time you walk - it's great for your mental health."
From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026
The massive expansion shows Kim plans to greatly expand a nuclear program that has defied pressure from great powers such as the U.S. and China and has rattled its neighbors in Asia.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026
Domino’s has the bones of a great restaurant business: a franchised model, strong advertising, a powerful supply chain, and a brand built around value and convenience.
From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026
Did they actually look like doors, or were they merely great balls of light floating above the forest floor?
From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman
Vocabulary lists containing great
Spelling Practice, Unit 8
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Spelling Practice, Unit 8
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Spelling Practice 1, Unit 5
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