Definition of Great
Quick Meaning of Great
Something that is much bigger, better, or more impressive than normal. You use it when something is really good or has a big importance.
Detailed Definition of Great
Of an unusually high or considerable degree; very large or impressive.
How to Pronounce Great
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: Rhymes with 'late', 'late', 'fate'. The 'ea' makes the 'ay' sound.
Watch out: Some learners pronounce it like 'grate' (rhyming with 'cat'); remember the long 'ay' vowel sound.
Origin and Etymology of Great
Old English 'great' meaning 'thick, coarse'; later 'of considerable size or importance'.
How to Use Great in a Sentence
Each example shows “great” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“She is a great teacher who inspires her students.”
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“That was a great movie!”
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“The great wall of China is one of the world's wonders.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Great
Common Synonyms for Great
Smart Synonyms for Great — When to Use Each
- excellent
- for describing very high quality work or achievement
- impressive
- for describing something that makes people admire it
Antonyms of Great
Common Collocations with Great
These phrases pair with “great” in everyday English:
- great idea
- great job
- great interest
- great success
- great deal
Common Mistakes When Using Great
Even fluent speakers slip up with “great”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He is a very great player.
- ✓ Correct: He is a great player. (or excellent/talented player)
- Why: Intensifiers like 'very' are not typically used with 'great' in formal contexts; use 'really' or simply 'great'.
- ✗ Wrong: She did a great work.
- ✓ Correct: She did great work. (or She accomplished a lot)
- Why: 'Work' is usually uncountable, so use 'great work' without 'a'.
Words Confused With Great
- Great vs Grate: Sounds the same but 'grate' means to rub food into small pieces
Other Forms of Great
Frequently Asked Questions About Great
What is the meaning of "Great"?
Something that is much bigger, better, or more impressive than normal. You use it when something is really good or has a big importance.
How do you pronounce "Great"?
The IPA is /ɡreɪt/. Rhymes with 'late', 'late', 'fate'. The 'ea' makes the 'ay' sound.
What part of speech is "Great"?
"Great" is an adjective at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Great"?
Common synonyms include excellent, wonderful, impressive.
How do you use "Great" in a sentence?
For example: "She is a great teacher who inspires her students."