The word ‘Great’ (Adjective) describes something of a high degree, quality, or magnitude that inspires admiration or respect. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use ‘Great’ correctly in sentences.
Great Explained in Depth
A complete and detailed guide to the word ‘Great’ including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.
Meanings of Great
Great is a versatile adjective used to describe something or someone that stands out for its quality, size, importance, or impact. It can refer to physical magnitude (a great building), excellence or skill (a great artist), or emotional significance a great experience The word can express admiration, enthusiasm, or even sarcasm depending on the context.
Definition
Great is an adjective that means of an extent, amount, or intensity considerably above the normal or average; remarkable in magnitude, skill, or quality.
It can describe people, things, actions, or experiences that stand out positively, commanding respect or admiration. It is often used to highlight something exceptional or inspiring.
Etymology
The word “great” comes from the Old English word “grēat,” meaning big, coarse, or thick. Its Germanic roots also influenced words like “groot” in Dutch and “groß” in German. Over centuries, “great” evolved in English to encompass both physical largeness and metaphorical greatness, reflecting not just size but also excellence and importance.
Example Sentences
- He did a great job on his presentation, and everyone applauded.
- We had a great time at the family reunion, sharing memories and laughter.
- She’s a great leader who inspires others with her vision and dedication.
Great Synonyms
- Excellent
- Outstanding
- Remarkable
- Superb
- Impressive
- Exceptional
- Wonderful
- Notable
- Brilliant
- Distinguished
Great Antonyms
- Ordinary
- Poor
- Inferior
- Insignificant
- Minor
- Mediocre
- Small
- Common
- Trivial
- Unremarkable
FAQs about Great
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the word “Great”
1. What does “great” actually mean?
“Great” means something that is above average in quality, size, importance, or impact—often conveying admiration or respect.
2. Can “great” describe both people and things?
Yes! “Great” is used to describe people, things, experiences, and even ideas that are exceptional or admirable.
3. Is “great” always positive?
Almost always, yes. Occasionally, in sarcastic or negative contexts, it can be used ironically (e.g., “Oh great, it’s raining again.”).
4. Is “great” too informal for professional writing?
It depends on the context. While “great” is widely accepted in both formal and informal writing, synonyms like “excellent” or “outstanding” might be more suitable for highly formal contexts.
5. What’s the difference between “great” and “good”?
“Good” implies something meets a standard or is satisfactory. “Great” goes beyond that, suggesting something is exceptional, remarkable, or highly admirable.
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