big1 adjectivebig2 verb
bigbig1 /bɪɡ/ ●●● S1 W1 adjective (comparative bigger, superlative biggest) 
WORD ORIGINbig
Origin:
1300-1400 Probably from a Scandinavian languageEXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- "Which is your car?" "The big red one next to the wall."
- a big difference in price
- a big tree
- Germany is much bigger than Britain.
- Graduation Day is one of those big occasions when everyone wants a souvenir photograph.
- He lives in a big house in upstate New York.
- I've never been a big jazz fan.
- I hear you're getting married - when's the big day?
- If you think I'm coming with you, you're making a big mistake.
- It's a simple repair that can prevent a big problem later.
- It's going to be a big adjustment for the kids whenever we move.
- one of the biggest companies in the insurance business
- She's a cute baby with a big smile.
- She struggled up the hill, carrying the baby and her big black bag.
- The city has a big problem with drugs.
- The game works better if you have a bigger group.
- The nearest big town is twenty miles away.
- The wind got louder and the waves grew bigger and bigger.
- There will be some big changes in the way we work.
- These jeans are too big.
- But this face was bigger; swollen and bigger still than the horror in the car.
- From these particular big systems I have appropriated unifying principles for all large vivisystems.
- If the warren system is a big one it may require two guns to do the killing.
- In fact, despite the dismal fundamentals, some of the biggest petroleum producers will record double-digit percentage increases in spending.
- This rotative engine soon became greatly in demand and had a big effect on the mechanisation of factories.
- To attract bigger audiences was not just a bonus, it was part of the whole logic of the industry.
THESAURUS
· a big city· a big guy· a big mistake· Lack of funding is the biggest problem.· Getting a car has made a big difference to my life.
a slightly more formal word than big, used to describe objects and amounts: · a large bowl· Large areas of the forest have been destroyed.· The museum attracts a large number of visitors.
[only before noun] big and important: · Pollution is a major problem.· There has been a major change in government policy.
quite big – used especially about amounts: · They have spent a considerable amount of money on the project.· A substantial amount of heat is lost through the windows.· He had a considerable influence on young musicians.
very big extremely big: · The table was enormous.· a huge explosion· Their house is huge.· There is a huge amount of work to be done.· There has been a massive increase in oil prices.· The company is massive, operating in 150 countries.· A massive fire destroyed more than thirty homes.· He’s been under an enormous amount of stress recently.· The changes will have an enormous impact.
[only before noun] very big – used especially to describe the level or number of something: · He achieved great success in America.· The college offers a great number of courses.· a great advantage
extremely big – used about areas, distances, numbers, or amounts: · vast areas of rainforest· A vast number of tourists visit the island every year.
extremely big and much bigger than other things of the same type: · Gigantic waves crashed onto the beach.
extremely big – used about amounts or objects: · James ran up a colossal phone bill.· a colossal statue of Napoleon
having an extremely big effect: · There have been some tremendous changes.· My new job will be a tremendous challenge.· The children were making a tremendous amount of noise.
Longman Language Activatorbig objects/buildings/organizations etc of greater than average size: · He lives in a big house in upstate New York.· "Which is your car?" "The big red one next to the wall."· The wind got louder and the waves grew bigger and bigger.· She struggled up the hill, carrying the baby and her big black bag.
big. Large is more formal than big , and is more common in written English: · On the other side of the fence there was a large bull.· The hotel was quite large and very cold.· large agricultural corporations· Take the larger cushion to sit on -- you'll be more comfortable.· The largest urban areas in Britain lost population and employment in the 1950s and 60s.
especially British, spoken fairly big, but not very big: · These chocolates cost £2 for a biggish box.· "What's the house like?" "Well, it has a biggish kitchen but all the other rooms are quite small."
a bulky object is big and difficult to carry or move around, or difficult to fit into a normal-sized space: · The men were carrying bulky packages under their arms.· The room was full of bulky old furniture.· a bulky camera from the 1950s
too big and heavy to carry or move easily: · I used to have one of those old sewing machines, but it was too cumbersome.· The room was dominated by an enormous, cumbersome leather armchair.
very big very big and impressive: · She wears an engagement ring set with a huge diamond.· My grandmother was wearing an enormous hat.· She looked at the huge motorcycle. "I'll never be able to ride that!''· There was an enormous spider in the bottom of the bath.· By the time of his death the company had grown into an enormous multi-national operation.
very big and impressive - used especially in literature: · Like great sailing ships, the clouds sped across the sky.· As far as the eye could see, there stretched a great herd of buffalo.
spoken extremely big: · They've built a great big shopping mall in the centre of town.· There are fish in the pool, great big ones.· She was given a great big bunch of flowers.
use this about things that are extremely big and impressive, especially when they are solid and heavy: · Her house is massive.· The ancient temple's massive stone pillars had begun to crumble.· The bell is massive, weighing over forty tons.
much bigger than other things of the same type, often in a slightly strange or frightening way: · Gigantic waves more than 40 feet high crashed against the boat.· These gigantic creatures became extinct in the Jurassic period.
extremely and surprisingly big - used especially about structures, buildings, and other things that have been built: · There was a colossal statue of the King in the middle of the square.· A crane arrived, its colossal arm reaching out of the sky toward the building.
use this about a plant or animal that has grown to an unusually large size, or is of a type that is always much larger than ordinary plants or animals: · Giant cabbages grew in the garden.· Be careful. The forest is full of giant snakes and spiders.· ...and then this giant green monster appeared from the cave.
use this about packets, bottles, or other products that are much bigger than the size that is usually sold: · an extra large packet of cornflakes· Extra large eggs are generally a better buy than medium or large.
spoken informal to be extremely big compared to the usual size: · Look at the size of that pumpkin -- it's a whopper.
big places, areas, cities · The nearest big town is twenty miles away.· Which is bigger, Tokyo or London?· We've got a big park fairly near our house.· Germany is much bigger than Britain.
use this about an area that is bigger than average size: · He lived alone on the edge of a large forest.· The farm buildings are spread over a large area.· Philip found himself in a large playground surrounded by high brick walls.
use this about a room, building, or car that has a lot of space inside: · The holiday villas are spacious, airy, and close to the sea.· Spacious and luxurious apartments are available to company employees.· The new Toyota saloon is both roomy and comfortable.· Their new apartment's very roomy.
spoken to be fairly big, especially big enough or bigger than you expect: · Braintree is a fair size but it isn't exactly a lively town.· I'm sure it would hold 500 cars. It's quite a fair size.
extremely big: · Archeologists have found the remains of a huge city in the middle of the desert.· The drawing room looked out over a huge lawn.· The farm is huge, stretching for over fifteen miles.· The distances between cities in Russia are simply enormous.
extremely large: · Migrating birds cover immense distances every winter.· 60 million years ago, the whole area was an immense desert.
use this about areas of land, deserts, distances etc that are extremely large and usually have very few people in them: · Vast areas of the Amazon rainforest have been destroyed.· Vast distances separate one isolated community from another.· a vast area of waste land
use this about houses or rooms that are extremely big and impressive: · a palatial residence with a fine collection of 18th century paintings· She lives in a palatial New York apartment.
big people use this about someone who is tall and has a large body: · My father was a big man, with legs like tree trunks.· A large woman in her early 50s answered the door.
very big and tall, in a way that is impressive or frightening: · The other wrestler was enormous - he must have weighed over 250 pounds.· A huge policeman stood outside the gate.
use this about someone who is big and strong and has a lot of muscles: · He was handsome and well-built, like a Hollywood movie star.
large numbers/amounts · She's used to working with large sums of money.· Large numbers of seabirds have been killed by pollution following the oil spillage.· A large proportion of the audience consisted of teenaged girls.
use this about rates, levels, measurements etc that are bigger than is usual or than is acceptable: · Someone on such a high salary shouldn't have to borrow money.· High levels of radiation have been reported near the nuclear plant.· I always try to avoid foods with a high fat content.
fairly large: · £1000 is a considerable sum for most people.· She receives a sizable income from her investments.· A considerable number of voters changed their minds at the last minute.· Sugar is added in considerable quantities to most soft drinks.
large enough to be useful or to have an important effect: · The survey showed that substantial numbers of 15-year-olds were already smoking twenty cigarettes a week.in substantial/significant numbers: · Women began to enter the British Parliament in significant numbers in the 1990s.a substantial/significant proportion of: · A significant proportion of drivers fail to keep to speed limits.
use this about an amount, especially of food or money, that is larger than what is needed or expected: · He heaped the plate with a generous serving of meat and potato pie.· I usually stir a generous quantity of rum into the cake mixture.· The company offers bonuses, stock options, and a generous benefit package.
use this about an amount of money someone gets or is paid that is surprisingly large: · Ozzie left a very handsome tip on the plate.· She received a handsome reward for finding the wallet.· The big oil companies made a handsome profit out of the fuel crisis.
use this about a surprisingly large amount of money, especially one that someone has to pay: · The other driver received a hefty fine for his role in the accident.· hefty admission fees· It was a $350,000 contract, plus hefty bonuses and expenses.
very large numbers or amounts · A huge number of people turned up for the demonstration.· Their profits are enormous.· Joan had very little money, and her hotel bill was huge.· Enormous sums of money were spent on the construction of the Channel Tunnel.
use this about an amount, number etc that is so large that it cannot be easily measured: · The refugees arrived in vast numbers from villages all along the border.· Vast quantities of food and drink were consumed at the wedding.
extremely large: · The system is capable of recording massive amounts of information.· Union leaders are warning of massive job losses.· The sums involved are massive -- over £12 billion in the first year alone.
use this about numbers or amounts, especially of money, that are extremely and surprisingly large: · Children are failing exams and dropping out of school in colossal numbers.
spoken informal a whopping sum of money or number is extremely large: · He managed to get a TV celebrity to open the theatre -- but at a whopping fee.· In the divorce proceedings, she demanded the car and a whopping two-thirds of the family business.
having a big effect · The city has a big problem with drugs.· If you think I'm coming with you, you're making a big mistake.
having a serious and important effect, especially on a lot of people, places, situations etc: · Heavy traffic is a major problem in most cities.· Think carefully before you decide on such a major undertaking.· Nuclear weapons are a major obstacle on the road to peace.
formal having a fairly large or important effect: · The recent slowdown in the US economy is likely to have a considerable impact on the rest of the world.· There was a considerable delay in the processing of our application.
use this to emphasize how much of an effect something has, especially a good effect: · Thanks. You've been a great help.· It would be of great assistance if customers could have the exact money ready.· I have great difficulty in reading without my glasses.
use this to emphasize that something is extremely big, important, or serious: · The city of Detroit has a huge crime problem.· Enormous changes are taking place in the way we communicate with each other.· The difference between living in the country and living in the city is immense.· His contribution to the team's success has been immense.
use this to emphasize how big, important, and often exciting an effect will be: · My new job will be a tremendous challenge.· Your advice has been a tremendous help to us.· It was a tremendous thrill, meeting her in person.
involving a lot of money or effort, or a lot of people or places: · Large-scale development has given new life to the inner city.· We need large-scale investment in the industry's future.on a large scale: · Developing countries will need help on a large scale for many years to come.
how big something is · He was incredibly aggressive - it was only his size that stopped me from hitting him.· The sheer size of the building was amazing.· I hadn't realized the size of the problem until now.of that size · They shouldn't keep a dog of that size in such a small apartment.
use this to talk about or ask about the size of something: · I'm not sure how big the house is.· How big do these fish grow?
the size of something such as a problem or a change, not of an object, vehicle etc: on a scale: · We were not expecting a public response on such a scale.the scale of something: · Rescue workers are trying to assess the scale of the disaster.· Scientists are only just beginning to realize the scale of the problem.
formal: the magnitude of a problem/disaster/decision etc how big and important or serious something is: · I cannot emphasize too strongly the magnitude of this problem.of this/such magnitude: · Decisions of this magnitude should not be taken by one person alone.· The oil spillage in the Gulf was of such magnitude that its effects will last for decades.
to become bigger to become bigger: · The hole in the ozone layer is getting bigger all the time.· More workers were taken on as the organization got bigger.· Teachers are reporting higher stress levels as class sizes get bigger.get bigger and bigger (=continue to become bigger): · The cloud of dust and debris was getting bigger and bigger as the wind grew stronger.
use this especially about amounts, organizations, and places: · Mark's business grew rapidly in the first year.· Tandem's annual profits grew by 24% in one year.· Tokyo has grown a lot over the last ten years.
to become bigger in size or amount. If a business, organization, or system expands , it becomes bigger and more successful: · Metals expand when they are heated.· The universe is constantly expanding.· Medical insurance companies expanded rapidly during the 1980s.· The sports and leisure market is expanding more quickly than ever before.
if a part of your body swells up , it becomes larger than usual, especially because of an illness or injury: · I dropped a brick on my foot, and it swelled up like a balloon.· His face had swollen up because of the operation.
if something such as a piece of clothing stretches , it gets bigger and changes its shape especially because it has been pulled: · Your jeans will stretch a little once you start wearing them.· The elastic stretches so that the shoe can be slipped on and off.· This fabric will stretch if you wash it in hot water.
to make something bigger to make something bigger - use this especially about increasing numbers or amounts, or about increasing the size of a company or organization: · She intends to expand the company's operations in the US.· The university is planning to expand the number of students to over 20,000.
to make a company or economy bigger and increase the amount of business that it does - used especially in business English: · All this is necessary if we are to grow the business.
to pull cloth, plastic, leather, etc so that it gets bigger and changes its shape: · Stretch the canvas so that it covers the whole frame.
to make something bigger, for example a photograph or an image on a computer. Enlarge is more formal than blow up .: · That's a nice photo, why don't you get it enlarged?· If the opening is too small, you can always enlarge it later.· The new photocopier will enlarge documents by up to 100%.blow something up: · You should blow that picture up and frame it.blow up something: · This section of the print has been blown up so that the enemy's tanks can be clearly seen.
to make an image or detail bigger, especially by using a microscope: · This microscope can magnify an object up to forty times.· The image is magnified by a series of lenses within the telescope.
British to make a building bigger by adding more rooms or more space: · The hotel has been recently renovated and extended.· We're thinking of extending the kitchen.
someone who enjoys eating a lot someone who usually eats a lot of food: · Don't give me such a large portion. I'm not a big eater.· What can I cook for them? They're such big eaters.
informal to enjoy food and to usually eat a lot: · Give him a big plate of spaghetti. He likes his food.· "Now there's a man who likes his food,'' she said, as her brother took a third helping of pie.
someone who knows a lot about food and drink and likes good quality food and drink: · They're real gourmets and buy only the best cuts of meat.· Many gourmets say that Camembert should never be kept in a fridge.gourmet food/cooking etc (=very good and usually expensive): · The shop only sells gourmet food, at astronomical prices.
British informal someone who is interested in food, and likes going to restaurants and trying new and unusual foods: · a new magazine for foodies· Michael Caine is an avid foodie who owns a string of restaurants.
words for describing someone who is fat having too much flesh on your body. It is rude to tell someone that they are fat: · Peter was a fat little boy.· I'm getting too fat for my clothes.· After thirty years, Teddy looked just the same, only a little fatter.· Most fat people simply eat too much by normal standards.· Though she weighed only six stone, she thought she was fat.
too fat, especially so that you need to lose some weight in order to be more healthy or attractive: · The doctor said I was slightly overweight and that I needed more exercise.· The majority of overweight people who diet tend to gain the weight back within a few years.5 kilos/10 pounds etc overweight: · My mother is about 50 pounds overweight.grossly overweight (=extremely overweight): · People who are grossly overweight are more likely to suffer from high blood pressure.
fat - use this especially when you do not want to say 'fat' because it would be impolite: · Even though she's big, Rosemary is an attractive woman.· It's often difficult for large people to find fashionable clothes that fit them.· Mrs. Medlock is a large woman, with a very red face and bright black eyes.· He runs quite fast for a big man.
fat, especially in a pleasant and attractive way: · Stevie is a plump healthy-looking child.· Frieda's mother was a plump, cheerful woman, quick with a laugh. · He's a little on the plump side, but nevertheless quite handsome.
someone, especially a small child, who is chubby , is fat in a pleasant, healthy-looking way: · The baby was pink and chubby.· Who's that chubby little girl with the dark hair?
someone, especially a fairly old man, who is portly is fat and round - used especially in literature: · The bishop was a dignified, portly man, with thinning white hair.· the portly figure of General von Hindenburg
big and fat, but also tall and strong: · Both of Myra's sons were hefty, energetic boys.· The mechanic was a big hefty man who could lift up the front of a truck with his bare hands.
strong but also a little fat and unattractive: · The second prisoner was a fat-faced beefy fellow who smelled of sweat.· Amanda and Tina were both beefy, sporty types.
a burly man is big, strong, and heavy, in a way that may make you feel nervous: · The farmer was a big, burly man with a red face.
spoken informal also lard ass American spoken a rude word used for a fat person: · Hey! Fatso! Pull up a couple of chairs!
when clothes are not the right size · If the boots don't fit, we can return them tomorrow.not fit somebody · There was nothing wrong with the coat - we took it back to the shop because it didn't fit her.
· You can't wear your father's suit, it's far too big.· I have to buy Tim some new sandals. The ones he's wearing are too small.be too big/small for · Those jeans must be two sizes too big for you.
· I bought him a shirt, but it wasn't the right size.not be the right size for · That sweater won't be the right size for him -- he'll need an extra-large.
clothes that are tight are uncomfortable to wear because they are too small and press into your body: · I don't wear my black dress very much. It's very tight around the waist.· If your shirt collar's too tight, undo your top button.
if you can't get into a dress, skirt, trousers etc, you have difficulty putting them on because they are too small: · I put on five pounds over Christmas and now I can't get into these jeans.
something that is important something that is important has a big effect on people's lives and on the way things will happen: · Next Thursday's game is very important - if Italy lose they will be out of the World Cup.· I have an important announcement to make, so please listen carefully.· She didn't realize how important schoolwork was until it was too late.
one of the most important or serious things - use this especially when there is a small number of very important things, but a larger number of less important things: · Smoking is a major cause of heart disease· All the world's major sporting events can be seen on HHS TV.· It's the chief executive who makes all the major decisions.
: big decision/event/occasion/day etc an important decision, event etc, especially one that will influence or affect the rest of your life: · This is a big decision - you'll have to give me time to think.· Graduation Day is one of those big occasions when everyone wants a souvenir photograph.the big day especially spoken (=a very important day in someone's life): · I hear you're getting married - when's the big day?
: key role/factor/issue etc someone or something that has an extremely important effect on the way something develops: · Education is likely to be a key issue in the forthcoming election.· The key person in this project will be the design manager.· He held a key position in the Bush administration.
important enough to be noticed and considered and to make a difference to a situation: · There has been a significant change in people's attitude to the environment.· Winning the award was a significant achievement.· a significant new discovery, which will improve our understanding of the AIDS virus
important: of some/great/major etc importance: · This battle was of great importance.· They suddenly became silent, listening as if what he said was of the greatest importance.of no/not of any importance: · Nothing of any importance was agreed at their meeting.
a historic event, moment etc is remembered as a part of history because it brings important changes that affect a situation for a long time: · the historic moment when Nelson Mandela was released from prison· In his book, Churchill describes that historic first meeting with Roosevelt.
: momentous event/decision/occasion etc something that is very important because it has a very great effect or influence on future events: · At this point William made a momentous decision -- he resigned from his job and joined the army.· The revolution taking place in eastern Europe must be counted as one of the most momentous events of this century.
a time or situation that is critical is extremely important and possibly dangerous because your future will depend on what happens or is decided at that time: · These accusations came at a critical phase in the negotiations.critical for: · The next few months could be critical for the whole mining industry.
an important time or event in someone's life, in history, in the development of knowledge etc, especially one that is the beginning of great improvements: · Getting my first part in a movie was a major landmark in my life.· This new drug is a landmark in the treatment of cancer.
people, places, activities etc that a lot of people like if someone or something is popular , a lot of people like them: · Lisa's one of the most popular girls in class.· Benidorm soon became a popular holiday resort.· Old-fashioned names are getting popular again.popular with: · Chatlines have proved very popular with young people.
British /be in favor American if someone is in favour , they are liked and approved of at the present time, although this may not last: · Suzannah and I are both in favour at work at the moment.be back in favour (=be in favour again): · It looks as if Joey, her old boyfriend, is back in favor again.be in favour with: · Her fresh approach to environmental issues makes her very much in favor with young voters.
someone who is well-liked has a lot of friends and is liked by most people: · She's a cheerful, good-natured girl, well-liked by all the people she works with.· As a politician, he may lack experience, but he's very well-liked.
if something such as a product or skill or a person is in demand , it is considered to be very valuable and a lot of people want to have it or use it: · High quality furniture will always be in demand.be in great/big demand: · Graduates in Chinese are in great demand in an exciting variety of occupations.be much/heavily in demand: · Her dramatic Latin looks caused her to be much in demand as a model.
informal if a product, activity, or performer is big in a particular place or at a particular time, they are very popular: be big in: · Oasis were big in the early 90's.· The single is already big in the clubs, and has been remixed by the band.
too proud someone who is conceited or big-headed is too proud of their own achievements or abilities, in a way that annoys other people: · You're the most conceited, selfish person I've ever met!· I know this sounds big-headed, but I've always been good at French.
someone who is arrogant behaves as if their opinions are more important than other people's, and thinks that they are always right: · You are a rude and arrogant young man.· his arrogant disregard for other people's opinions
someone who is vain thinks they are very good-looking, special, or intelligent: · She's a vain girl who is always thinking about her figure.· I am vain enough to want to look good, but not to style my hair and paint my toenails.
quietly pleased with yourself in an unpleasant and annoying way, because you think you are in a better position than other people: · Lawson comes over as smug and arrogant, but in fact he's quite a decent man.· If you knew, which I'm sure you did judging from your smug expression, why didn't you tell me?smug about: · I felt very smug about not wasting paper.
someone who is self-satisfied thinks that they are very clever, very successful etc, often without good reason, and shows this in an annoying way: · Doyle's self-satisfied smile irritated Haworth.· He was in his early 40s and had the self-satisfied air of someone who has achieved fame and success.· What makes a second-rate actress like Jean so self-satisfied, so over-confident?
spoken to be always talking about your abilities and achievements and never show any interest in those of other people: · She's a good-looking woman, but too full of herself for my liking.· He was too full of himself to care about anyone else.
feeling unreasonably proud of yourself, especially because you think you have done something clever: · I had made a big profit on the deal and was feeling inordinately pleased with myself.· After deceiving us all like that, she went away, no doubt very pleased with herself.
also fancy yourself British spoken informal use this when you think someone is too proud of their abilities or appearance: · You think you're it, don't you? Well you're not!· Like most young professional footballers, he really fancied himself.
to start behaving as if you are very important as a result of something, for example a success or being praised by someone: · It's not surprising that young rock bands let success go to their heads.· I know you did well, but don't let it go to your head -- the hardest part's still to come.
British /too big for your britches American informal to start thinking you are more important than you really are, especially because you have been successful in something: · Bonaparte wasn't all that bad. He was just a soldier who got too big for his boots.
how big or small something is · What size is that shirt?· Your desk is exactly the same size as mine.the size of · The price will depend on the size and quality of the carpet.(be) the size of (=the same size as something else) · Fire has destroyed an area of forest the size of Luxembourg.(be) twice/half/three times etc the size of (=twice as big, half as big etc as something else) · The seeds are very small, about half the size of a grain of salt.of different/various sizes · There were several pieces of wood of different sizes.double/triple etc in size · Cover the dough and allow it to rise until it has doubled in size.grow/increase/shrink etc in size · The black spots on her skin seemed to be slowly increasing in size.vary/differ/range etc in size · The American states vary enormously in size, from very large to very small.(of) this/that size (=as big as this one or that one) · In a class this size, there will always be a few problems.
use this to ask or talk about the size of something: · How big is the table? Do you think it'll fit in the trunk?· How big is the Dead Sea?· We need to know how big the rooms are.
the amount of space that a flat surface such as a floor or field covers: area of: · The boat's sail had an area of more than 50 square yards.· Calculate the area of the walls and ceiling before you buy the paint.surface area: · The rate at which an ice cube melts depends on its surface area.
the height, width, and length of an object, building etc - use this especially to give exact measurements: · The dimensions are printed on the side of the box.dimensions of: · What are the dimensions of the dining-room table?
the size of a large area: · The extent of the Red Creek ranch is enormous.in extent: · The principality measured about 16,500 kilometres in extent.
someone who spends a lot of money carelessly spending more money than you can afford on expensive things that you do not really need: · $400 on a dress! That's a bit extravagant, isn't it?· Rich and extravagant parents are spending more and more money on their children's parties.
formal someone who spends money carelessly even when they know that they do cannot afford to: · I remember him as a charming but irresponsible spendthrift.· She was by no means a spendthrift, but somehow all the money disappeared anyway.
a rich person who spends a lot of money, especially in order to impress other people: · I didn't trust him at all. He was a big spender, that's all.· This is the time of year when all the big spenders pour into Las Vegas hotels and casinos.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY
When they lose, they lose in a big way (=to a large degree). There was this great big (=extremely big) spider in the sink. There’s a big difference between understanding something and being able to explain it to others. Everyone was getting ready for the big day (=a day when an important event will happen). After years as a small-time actor, he suddenly made it big (=became very successful) in Hollywood. Des is a big gambler, you know. Mama gave me a big hug. AIDS remains a big problem in many parts of the world. Buying that house was a big mistake. What’s the big deal? It’s only a birthday, not the end of the world. It’s no big deal. Everybody forgets things sometimes. The 46-year-old author has finally hit the big time. Come on, Timmy, act like a big boy (=an older boy) now. The presenter gave her a big build-up. Richard has the biggest ego (=thinks he is very clever and important) of anyone I’ve ever met. He was a good deal older than her. The Beatles’ greatest hits. Which band had a hit with ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’? He came to the US and not only made it but made it big (=was extremely successful). He was driving much too fast. a nice long holiday a nice new car Some knowledge of Spanish is a definite plus in this job. a list of Canada’s worst polluters This is the first time the play has been adapted for the big screen (=films). Matt’s clothes were just a shade too big for me. The new casino hopes to attract big spenders (=people who spend a lot of money). Interest rates are twice as high as those of our competitors. a walloping great house He got a call from the factory, telling of yet more problems. Inflation had risen to a yet higher level.COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADVERB
When they lose, they lose in a big way (=to a large degree). There was this great big (=extremely big) spider in the sink. There’s a big difference between understanding something and being able to explain it to others. Everyone was getting ready for the big day (=a day when an important event will happen). After years as a small-time actor, he suddenly made it big (=became very successful) in Hollywood. (=the most powerful people or companies)
Des is a big gambler, you know. Mama gave me a big hug. (=hit your hands together with enthusiasm, to show you have enjoyed a performance)
AIDS remains a big problem in many parts of the world. Buying that house was a big mistake. (=said when you wish you had not told someone a secret)
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES· It’s a great advantage to be able to speak some Spanish.
· By the time Ron was 16 he had an enormous appetite.
· There was a big argument about whether we should move to a new house.
· The ducks and geese are a big attraction to children.
What’s the big deal? It’s only a birthday, not the end of the world. It’s no big deal. Everybody forgets things sometimes. The 46-year-old author has finally hit the big time.· Turn off the lights or we’ll get a huge electricity bill.
· The earthquake was a serious blow to the area’s tourism industry.
(=a successful actor who many people will pay to see)
Come on, Timmy, act like a big boy (=an older boy) now.· Most people don’t eat a big breakfast nowadays.
· Einstein believed he was on the verge of a big breakthrough.
(=older brother – used especially by or to children)· Jake was my big brother and I admired him.
(=a lot of money) Using celebrities in advertising is guaranteed to pull in big bucks.
Using celebrities in advertising is guaranteed to pull in big bucks.· The club does not have a large budget for new players.
The presenter gave her a big build-up. (=lions, tigers etc)· All 36 species of big cat are vulnerable or endangered.
· We’re having a small celebration for Dad’s birthday.
· It is one of Europe’s biggest clothing chains.
· Building the tunnel presented a major challenge to engineers.
· This could be the biggest challenge of his career.
· Going to a new school is a big change for children.
· They have stores in Houston, Dallas, and other big cities.
· She has a senior position in a large manufacturing company.
(=someone's main competitor, especially in business)· The company's biggest competitor is in financial trouble.
· My main concern is my children.
· The US is the world’s biggest oil consumer.
· A big crowd is expected tomorrow for the final match.
(=who is important and buys a lot)· America is a big customer for Japanese goods.
(=a day when something important is arranged to take place)· Just before the big day the team was training 6 days a week.
· The debts got bigger and bigger.
(=an important decision)· Marriage is a big decision.
(also a heavy defeat British English) (=by a large amount)· The polls were forecasting a heavy defeat for the president.
· There’s always a big demand for photographs of celebrities.
· Opponents of the new law are planning a big demonstration next week.
· I think you’ll notice a big difference.
· This method has one major disadvantage: its cost.
· If you spend over £50, you get a big discount.
(=a wish to achieve great things)· She was a little girl with big dreams.
· African elephants’ ears are bigger than those of Indian elephants.
· This is the biggest earthquake ever recorded in this area.
(=someone who usually eats large meals)· I'm not a very big eater.
· The teachers’ strike had a big effect on many schools.
· The government has made a big effort to tackle the problem of poverty.
Richard has the biggest ego (=thinks he is very clever and important) of anyone I’ve ever met.· This failure was a severe embarrassment to the government.
· Terrorism is our country’s main enemy.
· The newer model has a more powerful engine.
(=important)· Getting married is a major event in anyone’s life.
· This is the largest exhibition of its kind that we have ever seen in London.
· Last year saw a big expansion at the company.
· There has been a big explosion in the centre of Paris.
· She looked at me with those big brown eyes.
· Elizabeth is a massive fan of Elton John.
· I’ve got a big favour to ask of you.
· The school fees are extremely high.
· They ended up having a big fight in the pub.
· a big-budget film aimed at the mass market
· A big fire was raging at the fuel depot.
· He is managing director of a large firm.
· It was a big flat with eight or nine rooms.
· He had small neat feet.
· It's a big gamble for any presenter to leave such a successful show.
· There’s a big gap between the two test scores.
He was a good deal older than her.· He walked towards me with a big grin.
· I find putting on make-up a big hassle.
(=a headline that a lot of people are interested in)· Celebrity divorces have made big headlines.
(=much better, bigger etc)
(=a kind and generous character)· She may be only small, but she has a big heart.
The Beatles’ greatest hits. Which band had a hit with ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’?· The job interview proved to be much worse than I had imagined it would be.
· Winning this competition could have a big impact on my life.· His impact was greater than that of the Beatles.
· The situation today is a big improvement on the 1980s.
· The company has announced a big increase in its profits for last year.
· The goalkeeper’s injury had a big influence on the match.
· Developing a new computer system is always a big investment for any organisation.
· Novaya Zemlja is a large island in the Russian Arctic.
(=very important)· For me, the big issue is cost.
· She put her arms around him and gave him a big kiss.
· There was a big laugh from the crowd.
· The Bruins had a big lead at half-time.
spoken (=someone who tells big lies)· You're such a big liar!
· The lawyer said it was a ‘big lie’ that Jones had not received the message.
He came to the US and not only made it but made it big (=was extremely successful).· By a large margin, the book sold more copies than any other this year.
(=an important match)· Are you going to watch the big match on TV?
· We don’t have a big meal at lunchtime, usually just sandwiches.
· Buying this car was a big mistake.
informal (=a very large amount of money)· Basketball players make big money.
· They both need to work full-time because their mortgage is so big.
· He had a big nose and a big mouth.· Billy’s wide mouth stretched into a grin.
· He made a big sweeping movement with his arm.
(=one that cost a lot of money to make, or very little money to make)· He won a role in a big-budget movie.
He was driving much too fast.· He's developed big arm muscles.
· If they are right, they have solved one of the biggest mysteries in astronomy.
informal (=an important piece of news)· The big news is that Polly and Richard are going to get married.
a nice long holiday a nice new car· See that guy over there, the one with the big nose?
· The biggest obstacle to women's equality was social expectations of male and female roles.
· The big occasion for country people was the Agricultural Fair.
· There was a big panic about the virus last year.
· She felt the studio hadn’t given her enough big parts.
· I don’t really like going to big parties.
Some knowledge of Spanish is a definite plus in this job. a list of Canada’s worst polluters· I was hungry so I asked for a large portion of french fries.
· The school’s biggest problem is a shortage of cash.
· Drug companies make huge profits.
· The book raises important questions about nationality and the role of a citizen.
· Already a long queue had formed outside the concert hall· There was a big queue.
(=an important race)· There are only three days to go until the big race.
· Last summer was one of the hottest on record.
· You may have to take a big reduction in salary.
· Her biggest regret was not having children.
· The rewards for those who invested at the right time are high.· Some athletes took drugs because the rewards were great and they thought they could get away with it.
· There has been a big rise in violent crime.
· There is a great risk that the wound will become infected.
· It was his first major role.
· The president was forced to resign following a major scandal.
· For the patients, keyhole surgery means no big scar.
This is the first time the play has been adapted for the big screen (=films). (=an important secret or one that very few people know)· The event was supposed to be a big secret, but everyone knew about it.
· The museum shop offers a wide selection of items.
· This is a serious setback to the company.
Matt’s clothes were just a shade too big for me.· There has recently been a big shift in the way people are accessing information.
· It was a great shock to find out he had been lying.
· She heaved a great sigh.
(=an older sister)· She misses her big sister dreadfully.
(=a sky that looks large)· Montana is still a land of big skies.
· He was eating a large slice of chocolate cake.
(=when you are very happy)· She had a big smile on her face.
The new casino hopes to attract big spenders (=people who spend a lot of money). (=a very famous and successful star)· He has worked with some of the world’s biggest stars.
· The move is seen as a major step forward for UK firms.
· The tree had come down on the day of the big storm.
(=a report about something important)· He had promised the newspaper a big story on a major celebrity.
· The government claimed the policy was a major success.
· The results were a big surprise.
· The greatest threat to our planet is global warming.
· It was a great thrill for me to beat Federer.
· The service was great and we left a large tip.
(=the largest of your toes)
· I grew up in a small town in Iowa.· The nearest big town is 20 miles away.
· High interest rates spell big trouble for homeowners.
Interest rates are twice as high as those of our competitors. a walloping great house (=much heavier etc) The tickets were way more expensive than I thought.
The tickets were way more expensive than I thought. (=with a lot of guests)· They couldn’t afford a big wedding.
· They had planned a big welcome for Martin.
(=an important win, or one that you win by a large amount)· This is one of the biggest wins I’ve had.
(=words that sound very important or serious)· It scares me, when you use big words like that.
· My biggest worry is that I might make a fool of myself.
· Traffic congestion is not yet a major worry in the area.
He got a call from the factory, telling of yet more problems. Inflation had risen to a yet higher level.· A project almost as big as the Channel Tunnel is now under way to bring cable television to every house in Britain.· Our skating stars are as big as football stars.· A pile as big as this!· But LeRoy, he got one half again as big.· It had more of the great blocky writing, some of the letters nearly as big as a nome's head.· With careful pinpointing, manufacturers can have as big an impact with fewer coupons, he says.· And there is a warren here, but not as big a one as we should like.· That was about as big as it got.
· For the yellow menace.was even bigger and more terrible than they knew.· Its volunteer staff of 750, 000 is even bigger than the Manpower workforce.· Maria went to the University of Krakow Business School and ended up making an even bigger pile of money.· The troll again asked his question and learned that an even bigger goat would soon cross his bridge.· In 1987 an even bigger slice of the budget was apportioned to training, in recognition of its importance.· Ike and New Hope were building an even bigger church next door to the old new one.· But now even bigger and more drastic changes are on the horizon.· Brokers said they see an even bigger trading year for 1996 as foreign investment rises.
· It was red in colour and had much bigger wheels than the ordinary farm cart.· But changes in product-liability laws, a much bigger undertaking, remain stalled.· So much bigger than anything I have ever undertaken, he wrote.· The way he sees it, each town is like a neighborhood in a much bigger community.· The most successful, Susan Faludi's Backlash, achieved a much bigger multiple, selling 40,000 copies.· And they knew about much bigger people who had started out like this.· But Brandt's were a much bigger concern than Benn's and were aggressively expanding their share of the world market.· None the less, they hold on because they expect much bigger earnings in the future to eventually fuel dividend payments.
· She'd never ridden so big a horse as Sultan. and it gave her a great thrill.· I yearn for the days before I grew so big.· He makes a sandwich so big even he can't force it in his mouth.· But it was eerie in the sense that the trees were so big and dense and it was so dark.· I his park s blummin huge - I never knew it was so big.· We are are so big, and move along with such momentum, that we are able to live through everything.· It's all so big and confusing - all them streets and cars and places.· They had served a cake, so big you could walk inside it, shaped like an igloo.
· But they are both just too big for everyday use.· The envelope was too big for the bag, so everyone could see it.· I was given her clothes, which were too big and made the soldiers laugh.· For the grand narrative of History was always too big for its boots.· Got too big for his body, they say.· No, he wasn't beautiful - his skin was burnt a little pink and his elbows and feet were too big.· It was too big for her.
· Rex breathed a very big sigh of relief.· It is a big thing, a very big sacrifice on their part.· Part of her had the feeling that she was making a very big mistake.· He is very big and creates great opportunities.· A very big one licked me with its tongue.· There are some that are building very big things.· Uberwald is a very big place.· Yet there is a very big disjunction here.
NOUN· When they did get good they'd be one of the biggest bands in the world, the Fish predicted.· As in the stuff they make big band horn sections out of.· Moving one of the world's biggest bands around on a tour of this size is a massive operation.· The big bands ran into other economic barriers as well.· The evening will include a Bucks Fizz welcome, dinner, live big band, disco and cabaret.· Henderson had recorded with a big band before -- three tunes, in fact, in 1992.· Weller s big band took over for the final hour.· She returned to New York in 1983, forming a new big band by Tabackin.
· I say bigger brother, but the 880 is only really comparable with the 990 for resolution and performance.· Stewart was deeply moved to be back in the compelling presence of his big brother after five years.· Vincente caddied for him for a while but it was an awkward role for a big brother.· When I told my big brother about the whole thing, he said I was bloody stupid.· Spider was a big brother, a mentor, a guidance counselor that put the whole world in his hands.· He was my big brother and now he's dead.· Ginny, her dad was abusive, and her big brother used to beat her up.
· Maybe it's the nations healthy suspicion of flash gestures and big bucks.· And it provides lists of San Francisco Bay area residents who have handed big bucks to candidates.· The pair are said to dislike each other intensely - only the lure of the big bucks they make keeps them together.· The big bucks have not changed her life much either, Brandt avers.· Brokers hope that corporations will spring for the big bucks necessary to secure one of these behemoths.· Want great graphics without spending big bucks on software?· Become a student and get paid the big bucks.· At the same time, employees see their CEOs raking in the big bucks.
· With 40,000 hip replacements a year, making joints is big business, now mostly done by multi-nationals companies.· The reason I support him is he speaks from his heart, not from big business.· It is rare for any big business to take initiatives like that on its own.· Direct mail order sale of food products by food manufacturers and specialty shops has become big business.· Negotiation is at the heart of all big business deals and even the little ones too.· President Kim took the wrong course in favor of big business, ignoring the needs of the majority of the people.· Well, never forget that if big businesses are suffering, small ones are too.· In the social hierarchy, these lords of big business were the equivalent of the daimyos of the past with their clans.
· In Eliot's own life such an idea seems to have been associated particularly with artistic movements of the big cities.· Whenever I play the big cities now, the anticipation of coming home to the land is overwhelming.· Indeed the earliest suburban development preceded railway expansion by a decade or so in the big cities.· Ah, say, fly over a big city at night!· He: from the big city gentleman, to the rugged biker, to the fictions of Havana.· Most big city newspapers, bought up by chains, were operated from out of town as bottom-line corporate businesses.· The village child needs to be aware of the noise and movement of the big city.· Indeed, some young cities offer lifestyles superior to those of traditional big cities.
· Beaverbrooks recommend you choose your wedding ring about three months before the big day so that you have no last minute worries.· But Jones had his biggest day since 1993 Sunday.· The big day was February 4, and Chapman headed north with his team on the previous Thursday.· Bob Dole, the indisputable Republican front-runner, had an even bigger day.· Concentrate instead on getting everything ready for the big day.· The swans started to build their nest several weeks ago and everyone at the factory had been eagerly awaiting the big day.· Last year Demi, who co-starred in Ghost, hired an amusement park for 37-year-old Bruce's big day.
· But it's not a big deal.· Any single one might not have been such a big deal.· I told him about Bad Money - another short, no big deal.· It would be no big deal.· Finding people was no big deal to him. ` That's easy.· But Vassar taught me that I could do whatever I wanted to do without making a big deal out of it.· He d been thieving again, of course, but it was no big deal really.· We had a big deal as to whether or not we should steal some.
· But there is one big difference - excluding supervisors, it is manned by people who don't want to be there.· A small thing, but it makes a big difference..· One big difference from the normal formation was that there were five defenders playing, not the usual four.· The biggest difference is in the size of the companies traded.· One big difference is that there are no missionary organisations involved in health care.· Such programs can make a big difference for the students they serve.· Altitude, too, makes a big difference to how quickly you can burn.· That was the big difference between the days before and after I fell sick.
· Not so, says Dallas running back Emmitt Smith, one of Williams' biggest fans.· He's not a big fan of the Trevor Horn kitchen-sink ethos.· Uncle Tu was a big fan of your teacher.· The big fan above the door hums.· Amanda Holden is a big fan, apparently.· He is a big fan of reggae music and the late Bob Marley, a follower of the Rastafarian religion.
· Carp are no different from any other big fish.· So far, the products have landed some big fish.· Entire gangs have been arrested, and some very big fish have been netted.· When a herring meets its end, it is usually in the mouth of a bigger fish or a in a net.· The big fish, seeing the little one there, glides into the basket to gobble him up.· On a recent afternoon, he lobbed a variety of plastic lures toward the big fish.· They say you can catch really big fish.· The possibility of a big fish was too much for him.
· Try saying big glass as you would say big game and then as you would say big deal.· I love to play in big games.· So far, all manager Roy Walker will say is that the big man will be in the big game panel.· He was supposedly making arrangements to bring his suit and his hair back to Los Angeles for this big game.· They reckon it's no bad thing to be going from one big game to another.· Others, like Phoenix Mayor Skip Rimsza, bought the seats so he could take his family to the big game.· I had brought a rifle with me to Abyssinia. determined to achieve my dream of hunting big game.· The Towel stills makes appearances, especially for big games.
· Most substantially, Rockefeller is attacked as an apostle of big government.· The national-greatness conservatives, as represented by Kristol and Brooks, make their peace with big government.· Clinton has an undeniable economic vision: bigger government.· All the political rhetoric about big government protecting the weak and the poor is coming into question as well.· The feistier sort of Republican is as hostile to big government by indirect means as to the direct variety.· Democrats are addicted to big government, big spending and big taxes.
· All the big guns are through to the semi-finals as expected.· The side with the most men and the biggest guns will inevitably wear down its opponent.· Lincoln brought in the big guns of William Temple to get bishop and rector to release the curate before the time.· They leaned into their big guns, shoulders twitching.· In part two: Showdown: Soccer's big guns prepare for a shootout.· There was a tank with a big gun on it.· The big guy with the big gun strafed the place.· In 1996, they were the big guns who stormed through Atlanta with more devastating firepower than Sherman's troops.
· Matalan, the out-of-town discount retailer, took the biggest hit.· The splashy novelty number was a big hit.· And a fielder caught his big hit on the boundary, denying his team a win.· I went with the mugs and they're a big hit.· Mason's gusher was not a big hit in Bondgate either.· The Miatas are a big hit, retailing for between $ 35, 000 and $ 55, 000.· A regional footnote - the lumberjack-style Timberland boot was a big hit in the Eighties.· No, seriously, they watched to hear some of the biggest names in pop music perform their biggest hits.
· He went to an auction of a big house in Cambridge and bought a lot of cheap carpets.· He owned one of the biggest houses in the best neighborhood, traveled all around the world, had a summer home.· We were looking for a big house in Southampton.· The big house was just that.· A year passed and then a big house in Oxford Street came along.· They really believed everyone was rich and lived in big houses with winding staircases.· It was a lovely big house with a big garden out the back.· The Stabler family, comfortably well off with their big house and servants, could have helped her if she had asked.
· Oscar Orbos has done well as Mrs Aquino's aide, but at 40 may be too young for the big job.· No one would deny that there's a big job to be done retrieving the credibility of science.· Our advance party had done a big job.· Prodi has also given big jobs to two ex-prime ministers, both former central bankers.· It's a big job, but I guess somebody had to do it.· Yes, he wants to complete one big job before he dies.
· Yet bigger men than them have learned to their cost that no one can behave like that.· But the three veteran big men could be attractive to other teams precisely because their deals are up.· The big man has got bigger, and the small man smaller.· And the big man always pays the largest price for failure.· He drove like a man who enjoys driving; a big man at the wheel of a big car.· In addition to excelling academically, Mr Packard was a football star and big man around campus.
· Then on the last night I made my big mistake, and hit that bad business I told you about.· That, in retrospect, was a big mistake.· Spending even this short amount of time with him had been a big mistake.· His big mistake was to brag to one of the fat traders how he had done it.· I want to underline the biggest mistake which I believe bands make when they are starting out.· You might be right, dear, that I made a big mistake?· A ball of fire he might be, but he'd made one big mistake!
· Soon even bigger money began to flow-and not just to leading banks in Britain and the United States.· You look like big money now.· Despite the big money transfer of Colin Caulderwood.· The proposed test program is inadequate to ensure the necessary reliability before we begin to spend big money on national missile defense.· Pundits expect the really big money for 3-D displays to be in video-games and television advertising.· Sometimes, it costs big money.· But if the blockade continues it's going to start costing big money.· And that could be very big money.
· All the big names in the industry have tried it.· Miller disagrees with recent stories that the Senior tour has hit a dead period, its biggest names slipping into the doldrums.· More financial support would help improve her chances against the big names.· The big name in Mission still thrives.· The Lisburn event traditionally draws big names, as a glance through the previous winners list confirms.· She is part of the small but growing number of public relations experts who represent big names in religion.· And as soon as any of the old big names are fit, they're guaranteed a place in the team.· The biggest name is left tackle Lomas Brown, who came from Detroit.
· Cleanse your whole body Advocates believe that crystals can even play a big part in your daily beauty routine.· With a grilled steak or lamb, a big part of the decision involves where the food is eaten.· But the mind plays a big part in this game.· Residential building, a big part of the Southeast economy, continued to lose steam in the quarter.· Venue personality So, when you're picking the venue, remember that atmosphere will play a big part in your success.· Traffic played a big part out there.· Hunting was a big part of her life, of course, and I have mixed feelings about that subject.· Politics has been a big part of it.
· They specialize in the big picture and are no good at details.· They see the details but miss the big picture.· Wood engravings were generally small, because the box tree is small and its end-grain can not accommodate a big picture.· My plea is for balance and for concentration on the big picture.· That is the closing point; the biggest picture in the exhibition will be the finale.· In the big picture, the Rams were nothing more than a speed bump on the road toward the Super Bowl.· We need to seize the big picture.· Doing so shifts the big picture from industry conquering nature to industry cooperating with nature.
· Free safety Merton Hanks will look for more big plays in the second half of the season.· That was a pretty big play.· Consequently, our club got a big play from any and all officer personnel on the base camp.· Except for one breakdown, San Diego refused to give up big plays, the Raiders' trademark so far.· He kept telling Johnson he was going to make big plays and score the winning shot.· He has made big plays at very important times.· And they made enough big plays on their own Sunday night.
· Nina ... Her safety, now with Klingfeld's agents in New York, was the biggest problem of all.· But for others, it persists and becomes a big problem.· The big problem is to link up the route from the north.· Their biggest problem was having to drag around these old, puffy-looking, blue-collar bodies.· Two other big problems facing the organisers are crowd and traffic control.· Both need to refocus the political debate from their respective ethics problems to the big problems facing the country.· Knitters often tell me that their biggest problem is time.· His biggest problem is the seemingly resolute determination of Pat Buchanan and Steve Forbes to hang in.
· Plus latest news on the big race, updated racecards, latest riding arrangements, non-runners and betting news.· Republicans won all the big races last week.· It was there that he rode Evichstar in the Lincoln Handicap in 1990 - and notched his first big race victory.· And the Grand National, first run on Feb. 26, 1839, is the biggest race of all.· The Upsons have sent out over 150 winners from their home and are not overawed by the big race.· The World Championships was my first time in a big race, and I ran too far.· She's the sort of filly who deserves a big race win for she has been knocking on the door all season.
· The real Erik died more than 1,000 years ago, but he was recently resurrected on the big screen by Terry Jones.· The only thing less suited to the big screen would be a movie set in a bomb shelter.· At the advanced age of 71, Charles Bronson's wizened features are returning to the big screen.· Louis to put up on the big screens.· People sit silently, faced forward toward a big screen.· Andrew himself is no stranger to the big screen and has featured in several commercials.· Last fall the only playwright to make it on to the big screen was Shakespeare.
· That is a big step forward, because parents will then be able to use examination results to challenge schools to improve.· The Halifax's strategic approach is most clearly shown in two big steps it did not take.· This manager said he had made a big step.· The 9% buyer's premium is a big step in the right direction.· I had to take many big steps to stay with him, and still fell behind.· This was going to be a big step.· It was the first and biggest step in changing the council from a legislative body to a rubber stamp for his administration.
· That's the big thing about Butch.· Perhaps the biggest thing going was the harp played by JoAnn Turovsky, sounding positively, well, huge.· It is visible in big things and small.· He said welfare reform would be the next big thing.· The big thing I see students gaining is commitment.· His big thing though was his piano theory.· But Weinke, as his numbers prove, has done all of the big things for the Seminoles.
· And she has a habit: smoking, big time, as in two packs a day.· There have been many cases in which encryption has thwarted us big time.· Don King is looking for a return to the big time with Tucker, who will be a tough opponent.· The rich, including corporations, are involved big time in helping the poor.· We were both pretty excited about visiting Saigon, country boys coming in to see the big time.· So what's it like for young David to be in the big time.· His program comes off as being big time.
· And I shall be in big trouble if I return alone.· Down by as much as 25 percent in polls, in power for 18 years, the Conservatives are in big trouble.· Despite that, many in the industry reckon Daimler's biggest troubles may still be ahead.· Although he was in big trouble three of the five innings he pitched, Kamieniecki kept putting zeroes on the board.· Landed herself in big trouble in the Bay, but managed to get out of it.· Payroll taxes get you into trouble, and withheld payroll taxes get you into big trouble.· The club was in big trouble then, on the playing front and financially.· If the dam broke, the village would be in big big trouble.
· National, Rickenbacker, Gibson and a hundred other manufacturers all went for lap-steel production in a big way.· Once considered an ethnic food, bagels have gone mainstream in a big way.· With the breakdown of the administration, crime syndicates have come up in a big way.· But his baseball career has been resurrected in a big way this season.· Glascoed has been steadily gearing up its operations in bigger ways, too.· Way back, something went bad in a big way.· Many based on tried and trusted therapies heal the mind as well as the body and are back in fashion in a big way.· If I commit something in a big way and it turns out wrong, it will hurt my career....
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► be/get too big for your boots► use/wield the big stick► a big girl’s blouse► big up (to/for) somebodyPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► a big ask► (get) a bigger/better etc bang for your buck► black-bellied/fat-bellied/big-bellied etc► the sooner the better/the bigger the better etc► the big bang theory► the big society► big-bottomed/round-bottomed etc► low-budget/big-budget► dirty great/dirty big► the biggest/tallest/most expensive etc ... on earth► have eyes bigger than your belly► a big fish in a little/small pond► what’s the big idea?► and it’s a big if► me and my big mouth/you and your big mouth etc► next biggest/most common etc► plenty big/fast/warm etc enough► the best/biggest etc ... this side of something
1size of more than average size or amount: - I'm not big on foreign cars.
- And it is big on sport.
- He was big on Latin culture.
- It is big on thrills and headily grapey with a lush sweetness.
- The A-cups are big on luxury.
- The Renault 25 was big on gadgets.
- Hey, what's the big idea? Who said you could borrow my car?
- A whole dollar! Gee, that was very big of her!
- I think it was really big of Larry to admit that he made the wrong choice.
- And to have a big mouth to project.
- But I kept my big mouth shut.
- Director Jafar Panahi clearly loves children for what they are, big mouths and all.
- I generally think of sushi as bite-sized, but at Sushi-Cho you need a big mouth to eat your sushi without embarrassment.
- If Britain is a body then Essex is the botty and Barnsley's the great big mouth.
- The final proof, or perhaps the first, is the chub's big mouth and thick white rubbery lips.
- To her sisters, she is simply a big mouth.
- Sit up like a big girl and eat your dinner.
- B got serious about basketball early, a first grader watching her big brother play and her father coach.
- He was my big brother and now he's dead.
- I say bigger brother, but the 880 is only really comparable with the 990 for resolution and performance.
- Soon after that I saw her big sister Barbie in Mrs Marriot's.
- Spider was a big brother, a mentor, a guidance counselor that put the whole world in his hands.
- Stewart was deeply moved to be back in the compelling presence of his big brother after five years.
- The box costs £8,000 and runs the same multiprotocol routing software as its big brothers.
- They will continue to decline in numbers and mergers with their big brothers are on the cards.
- Waller has big plans for her retirement.
- I have big plans for Selina.
- They have big plans for their life together.
- Ecumenically it is as important as anything.
- But Vassar taught me that I could do whatever I wanted to do without making a big deal out of it.
- Filmmakers are hoping to bring several of Sandlin's works to the big screen.
- Her play was adapted for the big screen.
- Andrew himself is no stranger to the big screen and has featured in several commercials.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger, man of action and few words on the big screen.
- Rosheen watched as Postine came into view on the big screen, her massive frame picked out in infra-red against the night.
- The only thing less suited to the big screen would be a movie set in a bomb shelter.
- We watched it on the big screen.
- He played in clubs for years before making it to the big time.
- Aluminium benching is easily the best, as it virtually lasts for ever and is easily cleaned.
- He's easily the best military brain in the country.
- It's easily the best Fermanagh side I've played on.
- It gave easily the best value.
- Johnny Hero played the between set music - again proving that he hosts easily the best disco in town.
- Natural gas forms easily the biggest world reserve of methane-rich fuel.
- The greens were easily the best part of the dish.
- The pension is easily the biggest single cash benefit.
- During the time she was living with the Abramses, Katelyn was happy and a big eater, Carter said.
- While never a big eater, he did tend to snack it through the day and night.
- The big enchilada is the U.S. Supreme Court, and we're going to go there and win.
- We're aiming our products at the big enchilada - the home computer market.
- But he actually proved even better than I thought.
- He had hoped to play an even bigger, more traditional role.
- I sort of thought the accident would make us play even better.
- It was even better when I got a hug and a kiss from the former Miss Minnesota!
- Many companies do so because smart managers know the importance of rewarding good work and inspiring even better efforts.
- There was something spontaneous and lively in his manner of speaking that made whatever he was saying sound even better.
- This show will be even better than the last one and is not to be missed!
- What is the best way of stemming this decline or, even better, of regenerating the economy?
- I can't deal with this now - I've got other fish to fry.
- A few hundred metres off-shore we congregate so that Tor can explain the best way of going ashore.
- Are the best bargains going to petrol buyers?
- But in those years, they were always the team with the best record going into the playoffs.
- Its got to be the best ticket office going.
- Perhaps the biggest thing going was the harp played by JoAnn Turovsky, sounding positively, well, huge.
- There was a wide range of scores with the best individual score going to George McCallum of Douglas Reyburn with 37 points.
- This, so I was led to believe, was the best it was going to get.
- What is the best way of going forward? - Ideas from within I hear you say!
- A great big eel, one day, swam past and touched her.
- And great big chunks of the current Libertarian Party movement contain a horde of former left-wing nuts who are now Libertarian nuts.
- I like the man who's playing this great big shiny thing like a fog horn.
- I mean, look at what Hendrix had for pedals - just a Fuzz Face and a great big stack of Marshalls.
- In the silence that followed, Baby Suggs, holy, offered up to them her great big heart.
- It was that little noise and a great big hug that let me know that you were very proud of me.
- My mouth watered as I looked at those great big berries.
- Well now, one surely would have thought that for such little things those great big waves might have seemed threatening.
- All the big guns are through to the semi-finals as expected.
- He won't be the last big gun brought out in the battle for Stockton South.
- In Houston, many of the big gun shops have opted to police themselves.
- In part two: Showdown: Soccer's big guns prepare for a shootout.
- Lincoln brought in the big guns of William Temple to get bishop and rector to release the curate before the time.
- There was a tank with a big gun on it.
- They leaned into their big guns, shoulders twitching.
- A TU154 weighs a third more and consumes half as much fuel again as its Western equivalent, the Boeing 727.
- Even allowing for O'Donovan doing half as much business, this would mean 3000 tonnes of toxic waste leaving Ireland a year.
- He will not worry about the quality if he does half as much on Saturday.
- The fly therefore produces half as much sperm as normal.
- The safety mattress also produced only half as much carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.
- These kids only have half as much cerebral cortex as is normal.
- They looked like equine stock, but they were half as big again as any horse that Rostov had ever encountered.
- But cars are about half as much again as in Britain.
- But Catherine, 31, and 56-year-old Fatal Attraction star Michael spent more than half as much again.
- In school we are spending nearly half as much again, in real terms per pupil, as in 1979.
- Social Progress Health spending is half as much again as it was in 1979, after taking account of inflation.
- The Government is spending over half as much again more than Labour did when they were last in power.
- The line shot out, half as much again.
- They looked like equine stock, but they were half as big again as any horse that Rostov had ever encountered.
- This is half as much again as last year.
- Both policies got a big hand.
- When Tilbey had finished his presentation, Brown got up and asked the thirteen students to give him a big hand.
- He described the assailant as a tall man with a big head and bushy hair.
- But his interest in the farm grew, even after he hit the big time.
- I know he talked to her about what it was like before Jett hit the big time.
- Sandier hits the big time as the loveable three killer sharks to increase their brain mass.
- Still, even session men can hit the big time.
- And you men and half of Terminus as well are just as bad.
- At home it was just as bad.
- I would say the top teams are just as good, but the lesser teams have caught up a little bit.
- It was just as good a place as any to get away from Julius for a while.
- Now Allan Ahlberg has written two more stories about the same skeletons, and they're just as good.
- Or something else, just as bad, could happen.
- People accuse the whites of being prejudiced, but blacks can be just as bad.
- Virginia says sending them to a sister training program it has established at nearby Mary Baldwin College is just as good.
- And to have a big mouth to project.
- But I kept my big mouth shut.
- Director Jafar Panahi clearly loves children for what they are, big mouths and all.
- I generally think of sushi as bite-sized, but at Sushi-Cho you need a big mouth to eat your sushi without embarrassment.
- If Britain is a body then Essex is the botty and Barnsley's the great big mouth.
- The final proof, or perhaps the first, is the chub's big mouth and thick white rubbery lips.
- To her sisters, she is simply a big mouth.
- Any successful entrepreneurial venture starts with making sure that the entrepreneur is in the best possible mental and physical health.
- But the psychologist was never confident that he had obtained the best possible scores from Nelson.
- For a moment, I imagined the best possible to the worst possible reply.
- Obviously, the purpose is to ensure that the best possible pensions arrangements are reached.
- That way it will have the best possible start in life.
- The additional value farmers receive is the best possible free advice on both inputs and marketing.
- The horrifying news sent the Ciprianos on a nationwide search to find the best possible treatment for their daughter.
- This at once enhances the contribution which the court or parents can make towards reaching the best possible decision in all the circumstances.
- a meeting of insurance-industry big shots
- Among Western Conference big shots, only San Antonio seems trouble-free right now.
- And they used to race some of the big shots in New Bedford.
- He will be a big shot one day, she thinks.
- I gave my opinion but, of course, it was a big shot so early in the game.
- Malone, however, choked when it came to making his two biggest shots of the game.
- This is a matter between the big shots.
- You see, all the artists wanted to be big shots.
- Drug overdoses have become the single biggest killer among the city's young people.
- For the single greatest cultural movement of the twentieth century is the rise and global hegemony of black music.
- It represented the single biggest step towards the creation of the international air agreements of today.
- It was the single greatest revelation of his religious life.
- The survey showed that consumer concern about the economy was the single biggest factor affecting the building business in 1993.
- This is the single biggest thing we could do to reduce costs.
- But so happen, one little boy not so good.
- But it's not so bad down here.
- Compared to how I feel, how I look is not so bad.
- It is not so good at knowing how to do it.
- My tongue not so good anyway.
- She began to think that perhaps village life was not so bad.
- Some years it was bad, other years not so bad.
- When he was hot, he was hot, but for me the whole thing was not so good.
- It was Arbor Day, and their teacher, Miss Ellis, made a big thing out of it.
- By investing over $1.2 million, Levin and his partner are thinking big.
- A big man physically, he thought big.
- Do you need to think big or to pay a lot of attention to detail?
- He pressed on, thinking big, planning the largest electric furnace in the world.
- I always encouraged Alvin to think big.
- In an era of government downsizing, Texas is thinking big.
- It arose in the context of the thinking of people whose job it is to think big.
- Maybe he thinks big bad Deane will help if things get too rough!
- To trade in a heavyweight world market Britain must think big.
- And seeing as it was my brainchild, would you not say it was possibly the best commercial of all time?
- Surely the biggest robbery of all time was the $ 900m that the Dome stole from lottery funds?
- That's the biggest understatement of all time!
- You could call that round the biggest fluke of all time...
- Way back, something went bad in a big way.
- Actors are getting paid more than their worth all over Hollywood right now, and in a big way.
- But his baseball career has been resurrected in a big way this season.
- But I think we blew it in a big way.
- Colorado has taken to the sport in a big way.
- His ambulance service has taken off in a big way.
- I began to prepare in a small way to enjoy the Christmas in Bedford.
- This is something he has carried in a big way into his later professional life.
- Ahead of them, they could see the Big Wheel turning against a sky streaked with red and grey.
- Back down the beach, the Big Wheel was turning and there were even queues waiting to get on.
- Because this was the contraption's trial run, it was to be driven manually by turning the big wheel.
- He was a big wheel in Bucharest Securitate, Mr Manescu.
- He was sitting in the little hut where you bought your tickets to get on to the Big Wheel.
- The boys then allegedly put the infant on another bed and fled with the Big Wheel, police said.
- They came to steal a Big Wheel tricycle.
- You will also catch a glimpse of the Big Wheel in the famous Peter fairground.
- Filipe is not alone in the wider world, where 13m children are displaced within their own countries.
- Hardly anybody in the big wide world has heard of us, let alone been influenced by our lives.
- He knows little about economics or the wider world.
- In other words we want to help local enthusiasts to keep in touch with what is happening in the wider world of railways.
- Many children of leading ministers took advantage of the wider world their fathers' success had opened for them.
- We could certainly be a stronger presence in the wider world.
- Wealth and power go hand in hand, at home too, as well as in the big wide world.
- And the worst was yet to come.
- Her third night here and it had been the worst one yet.
- No, the worst ... Yet is she listening now?
- That was the worst task yet, as Psyche saw when she approached the waterfall.
- The decision opens the biggest policy rift yet between Holyrood and Westminster.
- The two have returned from a disastrous holiday in Greecebut the worst is yet to come.
a big house I need a bigger desk. She had a big grin on her face. a big increase in crime Los Angeles is the biggest city in California. The garage isn’t big enough for two cars. When they lose, they lose in a big way (=to a large degree). There was this great big (=extremely big) spider in the sink.► see thesaurus at fat2important important and serious: a big decision Buying your own house is a big commitment. The big game is on Friday. There’s a big difference between understanding something and being able to explain it to others. Everyone was getting ready for the big day (=a day when an important event will happen).► see thesaurus at important3popular/successful successful or popular, especially in business or entertainment: Julia Roberts became a big star. She’s very big in Australia. After years as a small-time actor, he suddenly made it big (=became very successful) in Hollywood.the big boys (=the most powerful people or companies) → big cheese, big noise, → big shot at shot1(14), → big time14older a)big sister/brother your older sister or brother b)older or more like an adult – used especially by children or when you are talking to children: Come on, don’t cry. You’re a big girl now.5large degree [only before noun] informal a)doing something to a large degreea big eater/drinker/spender etc Des is a big gambler, you know.be a big fan/admirer of somebody/something b)done to a large degree or with great energygive somebody a big hug/kiss Mama gave me a big hug.give somebody a big hand (=hit your hands together with enthusiasm, to show you have enjoyed a performance)6bad [only before noun] informal used to emphasize how bad something is: AIDS remains a big problem in many parts of the world. Buying that house was a big mistake. I never said that, you big liar!7have big ideas/plans to have impressive plans for the future: I’ve got big plans for this place.8be big on something spoken a)to like something very much: I’m not big on kids. b)to have a lot of a quality or feature: The new BMW is big on safety features.9what’s the big idea? spoken used when someone has done something annoying, especially when you want them to explain why they did it: Hey, what’s the big idea? Who said you could use my computer?10generous it is big of somebody to do something spoken a)used to say that someone is very kind or generous to do something b)used when you really think that someone is not kind or helpful at all: £5! That was big of her!11big mouth spoken someone who has a big mouth cannot be trusted to keep things secret: I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have opened my big mouth.me and my big mouth (=said when you wish you had not told someone a secret) → bigmouth12letters informal big letters are capitals, for example G, R, A etc13words informal big words are long or unusual and are difficult to read or understand14be/get too big for your boots informal to be too proud of yourself15use/wield the big stick informal to threaten to use your power to get what you want16a big girl’s blouse British English informal someone, especially a man, who is not brave17big up (to/for) somebody spoken informal used when you want to praise someone: Big up to Kelly Holmes! She ran a superb race. → think big at think1(39)GRAMMAR: Order of adjectivesIf there is more than one adjective, the adjectives are usually used in a fixed order.You say: · That’s a lovely big tree. ✗Don’t say: That’s a big lovely tree.You say: · The title was in big black letters. ✗Don’t say: The title was in black big letters.Grammar guide ‒ ADJECTIVESTHESAURUSbig: · a big city· a big guy· a big mistake· Lack of funding is the biggest problem.· Getting a car has made a big difference to my life.large a slightly more formal word than big, used to describe objects and amounts: · a large bowl· Large areas of the forest have been destroyed.· The museum attracts a large number of visitors.major [only before noun] big and important: · Pollution is a major problem.· There has been a major change in government policy.considerable/substantial quite big – used especially about amounts: · They have spent a considerable amount of money on the project.· A substantial amount of heat is lost through the windows.· He had a considerable influence on young musicians.very bighuge/massive/enormous extremely big: · The table was enormous.· a huge explosion· Their house is huge.· There is a huge amount of work to be done.· There has been a massive increase in oil prices.· The company is massive, operating in 150 countries.· A massive fire destroyed more than thirty homes.· He’s been under an enormous amount of stress recently.· The changes will have an enormous impact.great [only before noun] very big – used especially to describe the level or number of something: · He achieved great success in America.· The college offers a great number of courses.· a great advantagevast extremely big – used about areas, distances, numbers, or amounts: · vast areas of rainforest· A vast number of tourists visit the island every year.gigantic extremely big and much bigger than other things of the same type: · Gigantic waves crashed onto the beach.colossal extremely big – used about amounts or objects: · James ran up a colossal phone bill.· a colossal statue of Napoleontremendous having an extremely big effect: · There have been some tremendous changes.· My new job will be a tremendous challenge.· The children were making a tremendous amount of noise.big1 adjectivebig2 verb
bigbig2 verb (past tense and past participle bigged, present participle bigging) VERB TABLE
big (BrE)
| Simple Form | ||
| Present | I, you, we, they | big (BrE) |
| he, she, it | bigs (BrE) | |
| Past | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | bigged (BrE) |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have bigged (BrE) |
| he, she, it | has bigged (BrE) | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had bigged (BrE) |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will big |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have bigged (BrE) |
| Continuous Form | ||
| Present | I | am bigging (BrE) |
| he, she, it | is bigging (BrE) | |
| you, we, they | are bigging (BrE) | |
| Past | I, he, she, it | was bigging (BrE) |
| you, we, they | were bigging (BrE) | |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have been bigging (BrE) |
| he, she, it | has been bigging (BrE) | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had been bigging (BrE) |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will be bigging (BrE) |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have been bigging (BrE) |
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES What’s the big deal? It’s only a birthday, not the end of the world. It’s no big deal. Everybody forgets things sometimes. The 46-year-old author has finally hit the big time. Come on, Timmy, act like a big boy (=an older boy) now. The presenter gave her a big build-up. Richard has the biggest ego (=thinks he is very clever and important) of anyone I’ve ever met. He was a good deal older than her. The Beatles’ greatest hits. Which band had a hit with ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’? He came to the US and not only made it but made it big (=was extremely successful). He was driving much too fast. a nice long holiday a nice new car Some knowledge of Spanish is a definite plus in this job. a list of Canada’s worst polluters This is the first time the play has been adapted for the big screen (=films). Matt’s clothes were just a shade too big for me. The new casino hopes to attract big spenders (=people who spend a lot of money). Interest rates are twice as high as those of our competitors. a walloping great house He got a call from the factory, telling of yet more problems. Inflation had risen to a yet higher level.
· It’s a great advantage to be able to speak some Spanish.
· By the time Ron was 16 he had an enormous appetite.
· There was a big argument about whether we should move to a new house.
· The ducks and geese are a big attraction to children.
What’s the big deal? It’s only a birthday, not the end of the world. It’s no big deal. Everybody forgets things sometimes. The 46-year-old author has finally hit the big time.· Turn off the lights or we’ll get a huge electricity bill.
· The earthquake was a serious blow to the area’s tourism industry.
(=a successful actor who many people will pay to see)
Come on, Timmy, act like a big boy (=an older boy) now.· Most people don’t eat a big breakfast nowadays.
· Einstein believed he was on the verge of a big breakthrough.
(=older brother – used especially by or to children)· Jake was my big brother and I admired him.
(=a lot of money) Using celebrities in advertising is guaranteed to pull in big bucks.
Using celebrities in advertising is guaranteed to pull in big bucks.· The club does not have a large budget for new players.
The presenter gave her a big build-up. (=lions, tigers etc)· All 36 species of big cat are vulnerable or endangered.
· We’re having a small celebration for Dad’s birthday.
· It is one of Europe’s biggest clothing chains.
· Building the tunnel presented a major challenge to engineers.
· This could be the biggest challenge of his career.
· Going to a new school is a big change for children.
· They have stores in Houston, Dallas, and other big cities.
· She has a senior position in a large manufacturing company.
(=someone's main competitor, especially in business)· The company's biggest competitor is in financial trouble.
· My main concern is my children.
· The US is the world’s biggest oil consumer.
· A big crowd is expected tomorrow for the final match.
(=who is important and buys a lot)· America is a big customer for Japanese goods.
(=a day when something important is arranged to take place)· Just before the big day the team was training 6 days a week.
· The debts got bigger and bigger.
(=an important decision)· Marriage is a big decision.
(also a heavy defeat British English) (=by a large amount)· The polls were forecasting a heavy defeat for the president.
· There’s always a big demand for photographs of celebrities.
· Opponents of the new law are planning a big demonstration next week.
· I think you’ll notice a big difference.
· This method has one major disadvantage: its cost.
· If you spend over £50, you get a big discount.
(=a wish to achieve great things)· She was a little girl with big dreams.
· African elephants’ ears are bigger than those of Indian elephants.
· This is the biggest earthquake ever recorded in this area.
(=someone who usually eats large meals)· I'm not a very big eater.
· The teachers’ strike had a big effect on many schools.
· The government has made a big effort to tackle the problem of poverty.
Richard has the biggest ego (=thinks he is very clever and important) of anyone I’ve ever met.· This failure was a severe embarrassment to the government.
· Terrorism is our country’s main enemy.
· The newer model has a more powerful engine.
(=important)· Getting married is a major event in anyone’s life.
· This is the largest exhibition of its kind that we have ever seen in London.
· Last year saw a big expansion at the company.
· There has been a big explosion in the centre of Paris.
· She looked at me with those big brown eyes.
· Elizabeth is a massive fan of Elton John.
· I’ve got a big favour to ask of you.
· The school fees are extremely high.
· They ended up having a big fight in the pub.
· a big-budget film aimed at the mass market
· A big fire was raging at the fuel depot.
· He is managing director of a large firm.
· It was a big flat with eight or nine rooms.
· He had small neat feet.
· It's a big gamble for any presenter to leave such a successful show.
· There’s a big gap between the two test scores.
He was a good deal older than her.· He walked towards me with a big grin.
· I find putting on make-up a big hassle.
(=a headline that a lot of people are interested in)· Celebrity divorces have made big headlines.
(=much better, bigger etc)
(=a kind and generous character)· She may be only small, but she has a big heart.
The Beatles’ greatest hits. Which band had a hit with ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’?· The job interview proved to be much worse than I had imagined it would be.
· Winning this competition could have a big impact on my life.· His impact was greater than that of the Beatles.
· The situation today is a big improvement on the 1980s.
· The company has announced a big increase in its profits for last year.
· The goalkeeper’s injury had a big influence on the match.
· Developing a new computer system is always a big investment for any organisation.
· Novaya Zemlja is a large island in the Russian Arctic.
(=very important)· For me, the big issue is cost.
· She put her arms around him and gave him a big kiss.
· There was a big laugh from the crowd.
· The Bruins had a big lead at half-time.
spoken (=someone who tells big lies)· You're such a big liar!
· The lawyer said it was a ‘big lie’ that Jones had not received the message.
He came to the US and not only made it but made it big (=was extremely successful).· By a large margin, the book sold more copies than any other this year.
(=an important match)· Are you going to watch the big match on TV?
· We don’t have a big meal at lunchtime, usually just sandwiches.
· Buying this car was a big mistake.
informal (=a very large amount of money)· Basketball players make big money.
· They both need to work full-time because their mortgage is so big.
· He had a big nose and a big mouth.· Billy’s wide mouth stretched into a grin.
· He made a big sweeping movement with his arm.
(=one that cost a lot of money to make, or very little money to make)· He won a role in a big-budget movie.
He was driving much too fast.· He's developed big arm muscles.
· If they are right, they have solved one of the biggest mysteries in astronomy.
informal (=an important piece of news)· The big news is that Polly and Richard are going to get married.
a nice long holiday a nice new car· See that guy over there, the one with the big nose?
· The biggest obstacle to women's equality was social expectations of male and female roles.
· The big occasion for country people was the Agricultural Fair.
· There was a big panic about the virus last year.
· She felt the studio hadn’t given her enough big parts.
· I don’t really like going to big parties.
Some knowledge of Spanish is a definite plus in this job. a list of Canada’s worst polluters· I was hungry so I asked for a large portion of french fries.
· The school’s biggest problem is a shortage of cash.
· Drug companies make huge profits.
· The book raises important questions about nationality and the role of a citizen.
· Already a long queue had formed outside the concert hall· There was a big queue.
(=an important race)· There are only three days to go until the big race.
· Last summer was one of the hottest on record.
· You may have to take a big reduction in salary.
· Her biggest regret was not having children.
· The rewards for those who invested at the right time are high.· Some athletes took drugs because the rewards were great and they thought they could get away with it.
· There has been a big rise in violent crime.
· There is a great risk that the wound will become infected.
· It was his first major role.
· The president was forced to resign following a major scandal.
· For the patients, keyhole surgery means no big scar.
This is the first time the play has been adapted for the big screen (=films). (=an important secret or one that very few people know)· The event was supposed to be a big secret, but everyone knew about it.
· The museum shop offers a wide selection of items.
· This is a serious setback to the company.
Matt’s clothes were just a shade too big for me.· There has recently been a big shift in the way people are accessing information.
· It was a great shock to find out he had been lying.
· She heaved a great sigh.
(=an older sister)· She misses her big sister dreadfully.
(=a sky that looks large)· Montana is still a land of big skies.
· He was eating a large slice of chocolate cake.
(=when you are very happy)· She had a big smile on her face.
The new casino hopes to attract big spenders (=people who spend a lot of money). (=a very famous and successful star)· He has worked with some of the world’s biggest stars.
· The move is seen as a major step forward for UK firms.
· The tree had come down on the day of the big storm.
(=a report about something important)· He had promised the newspaper a big story on a major celebrity.
· The government claimed the policy was a major success.
· The results were a big surprise.
· The greatest threat to our planet is global warming.
· It was a great thrill for me to beat Federer.
· The service was great and we left a large tip.
(=the largest of your toes)
· I grew up in a small town in Iowa.· The nearest big town is 20 miles away.
· High interest rates spell big trouble for homeowners.
Interest rates are twice as high as those of our competitors. a walloping great house (=much heavier etc) The tickets were way more expensive than I thought.
The tickets were way more expensive than I thought. (=with a lot of guests)· They couldn’t afford a big wedding.
· They had planned a big welcome for Martin.
(=an important win, or one that you win by a large amount)· This is one of the biggest wins I’ve had.
(=words that sound very important or serious)· It scares me, when you use big words like that.
· My biggest worry is that I might make a fool of myself.
· Traffic congestion is not yet a major worry in the area.
He got a call from the factory, telling of yet more problems. Inflation had risen to a yet higher level.PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► a big ask► (get) a bigger/better etc bang for your buck► black-bellied/fat-bellied/big-bellied etc► the sooner the better/the bigger the better etc► the big bang theory► the big society► big-bottomed/round-bottomed etc► low-budget/big-budget► dirty great/dirty big► the biggest/tallest/most expensive etc ... on earth► have eyes bigger than your belly► a big fish in a little/small pond► what’s the big idea?► and it’s a big if► me and my big mouth/you and your big mouth etc► next biggest/most common etc► plenty big/fast/warm etc enough► the best/biggest etc ... this side of something
big somebody/something ↔ up phrasal verb British English spoken informal1to say that someone or something is very good, especially in public: - Ecumenically it is as important as anything.
- But Vassar taught me that I could do whatever I wanted to do without making a big deal out of it.
- Filmmakers are hoping to bring several of Sandlin's works to the big screen.
- Her play was adapted for the big screen.
- Andrew himself is no stranger to the big screen and has featured in several commercials.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger, man of action and few words on the big screen.
- Rosheen watched as Postine came into view on the big screen, her massive frame picked out in infra-red against the night.
- The only thing less suited to the big screen would be a movie set in a bomb shelter.
- We watched it on the big screen.
- He played in clubs for years before making it to the big time.
- Aluminium benching is easily the best, as it virtually lasts for ever and is easily cleaned.
- He's easily the best military brain in the country.
- It's easily the best Fermanagh side I've played on.
- It gave easily the best value.
- Johnny Hero played the between set music - again proving that he hosts easily the best disco in town.
- Natural gas forms easily the biggest world reserve of methane-rich fuel.
- The greens were easily the best part of the dish.
- The pension is easily the biggest single cash benefit.
- During the time she was living with the Abramses, Katelyn was happy and a big eater, Carter said.
- While never a big eater, he did tend to snack it through the day and night.
- The big enchilada is the U.S. Supreme Court, and we're going to go there and win.
- We're aiming our products at the big enchilada - the home computer market.
- But he actually proved even better than I thought.
- He had hoped to play an even bigger, more traditional role.
- I sort of thought the accident would make us play even better.
- It was even better when I got a hug and a kiss from the former Miss Minnesota!
- Many companies do so because smart managers know the importance of rewarding good work and inspiring even better efforts.
- There was something spontaneous and lively in his manner of speaking that made whatever he was saying sound even better.
- This show will be even better than the last one and is not to be missed!
- What is the best way of stemming this decline or, even better, of regenerating the economy?
- I can't deal with this now - I've got other fish to fry.
- A few hundred metres off-shore we congregate so that Tor can explain the best way of going ashore.
- Are the best bargains going to petrol buyers?
- But in those years, they were always the team with the best record going into the playoffs.
- Its got to be the best ticket office going.
- Perhaps the biggest thing going was the harp played by JoAnn Turovsky, sounding positively, well, huge.
- There was a wide range of scores with the best individual score going to George McCallum of Douglas Reyburn with 37 points.
- This, so I was led to believe, was the best it was going to get.
- What is the best way of going forward? - Ideas from within I hear you say!
- A great big eel, one day, swam past and touched her.
- And great big chunks of the current Libertarian Party movement contain a horde of former left-wing nuts who are now Libertarian nuts.
- I like the man who's playing this great big shiny thing like a fog horn.
- I mean, look at what Hendrix had for pedals - just a Fuzz Face and a great big stack of Marshalls.
- In the silence that followed, Baby Suggs, holy, offered up to them her great big heart.
- It was that little noise and a great big hug that let me know that you were very proud of me.
- My mouth watered as I looked at those great big berries.
- Well now, one surely would have thought that for such little things those great big waves might have seemed threatening.
- All the big guns are through to the semi-finals as expected.
- He won't be the last big gun brought out in the battle for Stockton South.
- In Houston, many of the big gun shops have opted to police themselves.
- In part two: Showdown: Soccer's big guns prepare for a shootout.
- Lincoln brought in the big guns of William Temple to get bishop and rector to release the curate before the time.
- There was a tank with a big gun on it.
- They leaned into their big guns, shoulders twitching.
- A TU154 weighs a third more and consumes half as much fuel again as its Western equivalent, the Boeing 727.
- Even allowing for O'Donovan doing half as much business, this would mean 3000 tonnes of toxic waste leaving Ireland a year.
- He will not worry about the quality if he does half as much on Saturday.
- The fly therefore produces half as much sperm as normal.
- The safety mattress also produced only half as much carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.
- These kids only have half as much cerebral cortex as is normal.
- They looked like equine stock, but they were half as big again as any horse that Rostov had ever encountered.
- But cars are about half as much again as in Britain.
- But Catherine, 31, and 56-year-old Fatal Attraction star Michael spent more than half as much again.
- In school we are spending nearly half as much again, in real terms per pupil, as in 1979.
- Social Progress Health spending is half as much again as it was in 1979, after taking account of inflation.
- The Government is spending over half as much again more than Labour did when they were last in power.
- The line shot out, half as much again.
- They looked like equine stock, but they were half as big again as any horse that Rostov had ever encountered.
- This is half as much again as last year.
- Both policies got a big hand.
- When Tilbey had finished his presentation, Brown got up and asked the thirteen students to give him a big hand.
- He described the assailant as a tall man with a big head and bushy hair.
- But his interest in the farm grew, even after he hit the big time.
- I know he talked to her about what it was like before Jett hit the big time.
- Sandier hits the big time as the loveable three killer sharks to increase their brain mass.
- Still, even session men can hit the big time.
- And you men and half of Terminus as well are just as bad.
- At home it was just as bad.
- I would say the top teams are just as good, but the lesser teams have caught up a little bit.
- It was just as good a place as any to get away from Julius for a while.
- Now Allan Ahlberg has written two more stories about the same skeletons, and they're just as good.
- Or something else, just as bad, could happen.
- People accuse the whites of being prejudiced, but blacks can be just as bad.
- Virginia says sending them to a sister training program it has established at nearby Mary Baldwin College is just as good.
- And to have a big mouth to project.
- But I kept my big mouth shut.
- Director Jafar Panahi clearly loves children for what they are, big mouths and all.
- I generally think of sushi as bite-sized, but at Sushi-Cho you need a big mouth to eat your sushi without embarrassment.
- If Britain is a body then Essex is the botty and Barnsley's the great big mouth.
- The final proof, or perhaps the first, is the chub's big mouth and thick white rubbery lips.
- To her sisters, she is simply a big mouth.
- Any successful entrepreneurial venture starts with making sure that the entrepreneur is in the best possible mental and physical health.
- But the psychologist was never confident that he had obtained the best possible scores from Nelson.
- For a moment, I imagined the best possible to the worst possible reply.
- Obviously, the purpose is to ensure that the best possible pensions arrangements are reached.
- That way it will have the best possible start in life.
- The additional value farmers receive is the best possible free advice on both inputs and marketing.
- The horrifying news sent the Ciprianos on a nationwide search to find the best possible treatment for their daughter.
- This at once enhances the contribution which the court or parents can make towards reaching the best possible decision in all the circumstances.
- a meeting of insurance-industry big shots
- Among Western Conference big shots, only San Antonio seems trouble-free right now.
- And they used to race some of the big shots in New Bedford.
- He will be a big shot one day, she thinks.
- I gave my opinion but, of course, it was a big shot so early in the game.
- Malone, however, choked when it came to making his two biggest shots of the game.
- This is a matter between the big shots.
- You see, all the artists wanted to be big shots.
- Drug overdoses have become the single biggest killer among the city's young people.
- For the single greatest cultural movement of the twentieth century is the rise and global hegemony of black music.
- It represented the single biggest step towards the creation of the international air agreements of today.
- It was the single greatest revelation of his religious life.
- The survey showed that consumer concern about the economy was the single biggest factor affecting the building business in 1993.
- This is the single biggest thing we could do to reduce costs.
- But so happen, one little boy not so good.
- But it's not so bad down here.
- Compared to how I feel, how I look is not so bad.
- It is not so good at knowing how to do it.
- My tongue not so good anyway.
- She began to think that perhaps village life was not so bad.
- Some years it was bad, other years not so bad.
- When he was hot, he was hot, but for me the whole thing was not so good.
- It was Arbor Day, and their teacher, Miss Ellis, made a big thing out of it.
- By investing over $1.2 million, Levin and his partner are thinking big.
- A big man physically, he thought big.
- Do you need to think big or to pay a lot of attention to detail?
- He pressed on, thinking big, planning the largest electric furnace in the world.
- I always encouraged Alvin to think big.
- In an era of government downsizing, Texas is thinking big.
- It arose in the context of the thinking of people whose job it is to think big.
- Maybe he thinks big bad Deane will help if things get too rough!
- To trade in a heavyweight world market Britain must think big.
- And seeing as it was my brainchild, would you not say it was possibly the best commercial of all time?
- Surely the biggest robbery of all time was the $ 900m that the Dome stole from lottery funds?
- That's the biggest understatement of all time!
- You could call that round the biggest fluke of all time...
- Way back, something went bad in a big way.
- Actors are getting paid more than their worth all over Hollywood right now, and in a big way.
- But his baseball career has been resurrected in a big way this season.
- But I think we blew it in a big way.
- Colorado has taken to the sport in a big way.
- His ambulance service has taken off in a big way.
- I began to prepare in a small way to enjoy the Christmas in Bedford.
- This is something he has carried in a big way into his later professional life.
- Ahead of them, they could see the Big Wheel turning against a sky streaked with red and grey.
- Back down the beach, the Big Wheel was turning and there were even queues waiting to get on.
- Because this was the contraption's trial run, it was to be driven manually by turning the big wheel.
- He was a big wheel in Bucharest Securitate, Mr Manescu.
- He was sitting in the little hut where you bought your tickets to get on to the Big Wheel.
- The boys then allegedly put the infant on another bed and fled with the Big Wheel, police said.
- They came to steal a Big Wheel tricycle.
- You will also catch a glimpse of the Big Wheel in the famous Peter fairground.
- Filipe is not alone in the wider world, where 13m children are displaced within their own countries.
- Hardly anybody in the big wide world has heard of us, let alone been influenced by our lives.
- He knows little about economics or the wider world.
- In other words we want to help local enthusiasts to keep in touch with what is happening in the wider world of railways.
- Many children of leading ministers took advantage of the wider world their fathers' success had opened for them.
- We could certainly be a stronger presence in the wider world.
- Wealth and power go hand in hand, at home too, as well as in the big wide world.
- And the worst was yet to come.
- Her third night here and it had been the worst one yet.
- No, the worst ... Yet is she listening now?
- That was the worst task yet, as Psyche saw when she approached the waterfall.
- The decision opens the biggest policy rift yet between Holyrood and Westminster.
- The two have returned from a disastrous holiday in Greecebut the worst is yet to come.
He’s always on TV bigging up his new band.2big it up to spend a lot of money and enjoy yourself in a social situation, in a way that other people will notice