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.
“It would be great if that number was 100%,” said David Stinnett, Vanguard’s head of strategic retirement consulting.
From MarketWatch • Jun. 16, 2026
“There is a great deal of mistrust in L.A. city government right now.”
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 16, 2026
“And when they’re not, they’re going to suddenly think these are great rules. So let’s do them now.”
From Salon • Jun. 16, 2026
Prince George's uncle, Prince Harry, and great uncle, Earl Spencer, also attended the elite boarding school.
From BBC • Jun. 16, 2026
The Board of Education set great store by her.
From "The Teacher’s Funeral" by Richard Peck
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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