The word "big" is a versatile adjective used globally to describe something that is large in size, importance, or scope. Its applications span from the physical world, where it can describe objects, buildings, or creatures, to the abstract realm, where it can denote influence or significance. Over the years, "big" has taken on different connotations in popular culture and media, often symbolizing power, success, or even excess. From "big data" to "big decisions," the word is employed in various fields to convey something substantial or impactful.
Word 'big' in Other Languages
- big in Assamese অসমীয়া
- big in Bengali বাংলা
- big in Bodo बड़ो
- big in Dogri डोगरी
- big in English
- big in Gujarati ગુજરાતી
- big in Hindi हिन्दी
- big in Kannada ಕನ್ನಡ
- big in Kashmiri कॉशुर
- big in Konkani कोंकणी
- big in Maithili মৈথিলী
- big in Malayalam മലയാളം
- big in Manipuri মৈতৈলোন্
- big in Marathi मराठी
- big in Nepali नेपाली
- big in Oriya ଓଡ଼ିଆ
- big in Punjabi ਪੰਜਾਬੀ
- big in Sanskrit संस्कृतम्
- big in Santali
- big in Sindhi سنڌي
- big in Tamil தமிழ்
- big in Telugu తెలుగు
- big in Urdu اُردُو
Big
Part of Speech
Adjective
Pronunciation
/bɪɡ/
Definitions
- Of considerable size, extent, or intensity.
- Important or influential.
- Generous or large in amount or degree.
- (Informal) Having a large body or being obese.
Usage Examples
- "The big house sat on the hilltop."
- "He made a big decision that changed his life."
- "She gave me a big hug after I graduated."
Etymology
Originating from Old English "byge," meaning "strong" or "important." It evolved to describe something of large size or significance over time.
Synonyms
- Large
- Huge
- Gigantic
- Vast
- Enormous
Antonyms
- Small
- Tiny
- Petite
- Minor
Translations
| Language | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish | Grande | /ˈɡɾande/ |
| Hindi | बड़ा | /bɾaːɖaː/ |
| French | Grand | /ɡʁɑ̃/ |
| Chinese | 大 | /dà/ |
| Arabic | كبير | /kabīr/ |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
In some English-speaking regions, such as the southern United States, "big" may be pronounced with a stronger emphasis on the "i" sound, sounding like /biːɡ/.
Historical Usage
The word "big" has been used since the Old English period, referring originally to something powerful or significant before evolving into a term describing size. Its usage has expanded over centuries to include both physical size and metaphorical significance.
Cultural Nuances
In some cultures, "big" can also imply importance or prestige, such as in the phrase "big shot" or "big deal." In contrast, in other cultures, being big or large might be associated with wealth, power, or even excess.