large
Usage
What are other ways to say large?
In reference to the size and extent of concrete objects, large is somewhat formal, great is highly formal and even poetic, suggesting also that the object is notable or imposing, and big is the most general and most colloquial word: a large tree; a great oak; a big tree; a large field; great plains; 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.
Behind the glass of a sterile room, two employees in full protective suits could be seen extracting an insulin component from a large vat to send a test sample to a customer.
From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026
Rivers in the Arctic have a surprisingly large influence on the planet.
From Science Daily • Apr. 4, 2026
Shortly after their arrival, they attended a service at a large church in Naperville, marking the first time they had worshiped openly as Christians.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026
Each berry came out as a single large, flat flake that crisped when baked.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026
To alleviate the boredom we give the dogs large beef bones to chew and play with.
From "Woodsong" by Gary Paulsen
From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.
