Big vs Large
What’s the difference between them?
Big
Meaning:
of great size.
Examples:
1. The big tree in the backyard was almost too tall to see over.
2. Big corporations have a lot of influence in the world.
3. His ambition was to become big in the movie industry.
Large
Meaning:
of greater than average size, extent, quantity, or amount.
Examples:
1. The large tree blocked the entire street.
2. She had a large collection of books.
3. He had a large amount of money saved up.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Big
1. Large
2. Huge
3. Enormous
4. Substantial
5. Colossal
1. Small
2. Tiny
3. Minor
4. Insignificant
5. Not Grand/Grandiose
Large
1. Big
2. Vast
3. Immense
4. Monumental
5. Enormous
1. Small
2. Insignificant
3. Tiny
4. Negligible
5. Of Little Importance
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Big", "Large".
1. 'Big' is more general than 'large'; anything can be big, but not everything is large.
2. The size increase with 'large' is greater than with 'big'.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When should 'big' be used?
Big is typically used when referring to a physical object or person that has more than average size, such as a large building, a tall person, or a hefty item. Big is also often used to describe an abstract idea, such as a big decision or a big problem.
When is the appropriate context for using 'large'?
Large is used to describe objects, people, or concepts that are greater in size, extent, or amount than average. Large can also be used as an informal synonym for big, such as when describing a large pizza or a large crowd.
Do 'big' and 'large' share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not have the same pronunciation. Big is pronounced with a short 'i' sound, while large is pronounced with an 'a' sound.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One of the most common mistakes people make when using these words is using them interchangeably. Although they can be used as informal synonyms, there are subtle differences between the two words. Big typically refers to an abstract idea while large is used to describe a physical object or concept. Additionally, people commonly use 'large' to describe anything that is 'bigger' than something else, when 'big' would be more appropriate.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. The _____ dog guarded the entrance to the house.
2. They live in a _____ mansion on the hill.
3. She has such a _____ heart, always helping others.
4. The forest has a very _____ population of deer.
5. Id like a _____ coffee with cream, please.
6. The universe is so _____, its almost impossible to imagine its vastness.
1. The big dog guarded the entrance to the house.
Explanation: While both big and large can describe size, big is a more common adjective to describe animals, especially in everyday conversation.
2. They live in a large mansion on the hill.
Explanation: Mansion already implies that the house is big, so large is used to emphasize the grandness or spaciousness of the mansion.
3. She has such a big heart, always helping others.
Explanation: The term big heart is an idiomatic expression in English that means being kind, generous, or sympathetic.
4. The forest has a very large population of deer.
Explanation: When talking about populations or numbers in a more formal context, large is typically used.
5. Id like a large coffee with cream, please.
Explanation: In the context of ordering food or drinks, large is often used to denote size, especially in places like cafes or restaurants.
6. The universe is so big, its almost impossible to imagine its vastness.
Explanation: Big is used here in a more general sense to emphasize the enormity of the universe. Both big and large can work in this context, but big often feels more expansive in its connotation when discussing abstract concepts like the universe.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.