Expressions With Big
The word ‘big’ carries weight not just in size but in the English language’s array of expressions. This three-letter word plays a ‘big’ role in idiomatic phrases, representing importance, intensity, and magnitude. In this exploration, we’ll dive into the world of ‘big’ expressions, unpack their meanings, and showcase examples of how these phrases add flavor to our conversations and writings.
Table of Contents
“Big deal”
The phrase “big deal” can be used both sincerely and sarcastically to express that something is very important or, conversely, not important at all.
Example (Sincere): “Landing this contract is a big deal for our company. It could really put us on the map.”
Example (Sarcastic): “So you got the highest score on the game – big deal! It doesn’t mean much in the real world.”
“Big cheese”
“Big cheese” is a playful way to refer to an important person, particularly in the business or social world.
Example: “At the annual conference, everyone wanted to talk to the big cheese, the CEO who had just inked a monumental deal.”
“Big fish in a small pond”
This expression describes a person who is important but only within a limited scope or area.
Example: “He was a big fish in a small pond back home, but moving to the city showed him just how vast the ocean really is.”
“Big-hearted”
To be “big-hearted” is to be kind and generous.
Example: “The big-hearted philanthropist was known for her extensive charity work.”
“Big shot”
Similar to “big cheese,” a “big shot” is a person of great importance or influence.
Example: “After years of hard work, she became a big shot in the tech industry.”
“Big picture”
The “big picture” refers to the overall perspective or objective, not just the detailed parts.
Example: “As a manager, you need to focus on the big picture rather than getting bogged down in the minutiae.”
“Go big or go home”
This phrase encourages bold actions and efforts rather than settling for mediocrity or half-measures.
Example: “When it comes to your dreams, you have to go big or go home – no one remembers the cautious.”
“Big brother”
“Big brother” can refer to an actual older brother, or metaphorically to oppressive surveillance and control, as popularized by George Orwell’s novel “1984.”
Example: “With all the cameras in the city, it feels like Big Brother is always watching.”
“Big mouth”
Calling someone a “big mouth” indicates they talk too much or are indiscreet.
Example: “Keep the surprise party a secret—don’t tell Angie, she’s got a big mouth!”
“Big-headed”
Being “big-headed” is another way of saying someone is arrogant or overly self-confident.
Example: “Ever since he won the award, he’s become big-headed and hardly listens to anyone’s advice.”
“Too big for one’s britches”
This expression suggests someone is acting too confident or is overestimating their own importance.
Example: “After getting a little bit of fame, he’s become too big for his britches, acting as if he’s a superstar.”
“Big time”
“Big time” means to a great degree or very much; it can also refer to the major leagues or top level in a particular field.
Example (Degree): “He messed up big time by losing the client’s files.”
Example (Level): “Her singing talent has finally been recognized, and now she’s playing in the big time.”
“Big league”
“Big league” is used to describe the highest level of professional play, particularly in sports.
Example: “After years in the minor leagues, his big league debut was everything he had hoped for.”
“Make it big”
To “make it big” is to become very successful or famous.
Example: “He’s determined to make it big in Hollywood.”
“Big on”
If you’re “big on” something, you’re very enthusiastic or passionate about it.
Example: “She’s really big on fitness; you’ll find her at the gym every day without fail.”
“Big break”
A “big break” is a sudden opportunity for success.
Example: “His role in the hit TV series was his big break after years of small, unnoticed parts.”
“Big spenders”
“Big spenders” are people who like to spend large amounts of money.
Example: “The luxury stores love big spenders who don’t think twice about the price tag.”
“Big game”
The “big game” is typically the most important or high-stakes match or competition.
Example: “The whole town isexcited about the big game this weekend—it’s the championship final.”
“Big idea”
The “big idea” refers to the central, most important, or innovative concept in a discussion or project.
Example: “The big idea behind their startup was an app that could instantly translate spoken language.”
“Big hitter”
A “big hitter” is someone who is very successful or powerful, especially in business or sports.
Example: “The company is bringing in a big hitter to turn their fortunes around.”
“Big as life”
If something or someone is described as “big as life,” it means they are present in a surprising or larger-than-life manner.
Example: “There he was, big as life, standing at the door when I thought he was miles away.”
“Big wig”
“Big wig” is another term for an important person, often with a connotation of self-importance.
Example: “The conference was attended by all the big wigs of the industry.”
“Big gun”
A “big gun” is someone with a lot of power or influence, typically used in a context where such power is brought to bear.
Example: “When the negotiations got tough, they brought in the big gun to close the deal.”
“Big ask”
A “big ask” is a request that is considered a lot to ask for, either because it’s a large favor or requires a significant effort.
Example: “The charity’s goal of raising a million dollars in a month is a big ask, but they’re confident they can do it.”
“Big no-no”
A “big no-no” is an informal way to refer to something that is a major mistake or taboo.
Example: “Using your phone during the movie is a big no-no; it disturbs everyone else.”
“Big bucks”
“Big bucks” refers to a large amount of money.
Example: “He’s making big bucks now that he’s the lead engineer on the project.”
“Big bang for your buck”
Getting a “big bang for your buck” means receiving great value for the money spent.
Example: “This laptop wasn’t cheap, but it’s high performance and reliability give you a big bang for your buck.”
Final Thoughts
The expressions above illustrate the versatility and richness ‘big’ has brought to the English language. From conveying status, significance, and scale to expressing enthusiasm or disapproval, ‘big’ expressions are an integral part of our linguistic tapestry. They allow speakers and writers to paint vivid pictures and to emphasize their points with a certain boldness that only ‘big’ can provide. Whether it’s in the realm of business, personal relationships, or casual conversation, these ‘big’ phrases will continue to loom large in our communication.
