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.
Most large outbreaks known in the past have been caused by the Zaire virus, the only one for which a vaccine is licenced.
From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026
Though LaPierre resigned in 2024, the man who led the organization for more than three decades looms large over the current dispute.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026
The technique could be used both in large centralized facilities and in smaller local systems that take advantage of waste heat from major industrial operations.
From Science Daily • Jun. 2, 2026
Although FIFA, global soccer’s governing body and the organizer of the World Cup, is not a party in the labor talks, its influence looms large in the effort to get a deal, Petersen said.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026
I stopped to watch as two men carried out a tapestried sofa and loaded it into the back of a large delivery truck.
From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu
![]()