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.
And watching people still getting off on them and respond, it’s a great feeling.
From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 2026
As Guardiola has micro-managed City's players like a great conductor from the sidelines, he has produced teams, styles, and tactical innovations that will provide a framework for the modern game, now and in the future.
From BBC • May 18, 2026
When can an athlete be considered truly great?
From The Wall Street Journal • May 18, 2026
It’s great because she’s not overriding another judge’s order.
From Slate • May 18, 2026
Last night’s winds had blown a great many leaves from the trees, and they gave a satisfying crunch beneath his paws.
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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