Definition of Gross
Quick Meaning of Gross
The total amount before anything is subtracted. Opposite of net. For example, gross salary is your pay before taxes are taken out.
Detailed Definition of Gross
In finance and accounting, the total amount before any deductions, discounts, taxes, or other reductions are subtracted.
How to Pronounce Gross
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: GROHSS. One syllable: GROHSS. Stress the single syllable strongly. Rhymes with 'loss', 'boss', 'toss'.
Watch out: Some learners add an extra syllable (GROSS-uh) or mispronounce the vowel. It's one syllable: GROHSS.
Origin and Etymology of Gross
From Old French 'gros' (thick, large, whole), from Latin 'grossus'. Originally meant 'large' or 'thick'; in accounting, it means 'whole' or 'total' amount.
How to Use Gross in a Sentence
Each example shows “gross” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The company reported gross revenue of $10 million for the quarter.”
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“Your gross salary is your pay before taxes and deductions.”
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“Gross profit is calculated by subtracting the cost of goods sold from revenue.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Gross
Common Synonyms for Gross
Smart Synonyms for Gross — When to Use Each
- total before deductions
- Technical definition; explains the accounting principle clearly
- before-tax amount
- Emphasizes that taxes have not yet been subtracted
- undiscounted total
- Shows that no reductions have been applied
Antonyms of Gross
Common Collocations with Gross
These phrases pair with “gross” in everyday English:
- gross profit
- gross revenue
- gross income
- gross margin
- gross weight
Common Mistakes When Using Gross
Even fluent speakers slip up with “gross”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The gross profit are $500,000 this quarter.
- ✓ Correct: The gross profit is $500,000 this quarter.
- Why: Profit (singular) takes 'is', not 'are'. The adjective 'gross' doesn't change.
- ✗ Wrong: Gross sales is before discounts are deducted.
- ✓ Correct: Gross sales are before discounts are deducted.
- Why: Sales (plural) takes 'are', not 'is'.
- ✗ Wrong: We need knowing our gross income for tax purposes.
- ✓ Correct: We need to know our gross income for tax purposes.
- Why: After 'need', use 'to + verb', not 'verb-ing'.
Words Confused With Gross
Other Forms of Gross
- Adjective: gross
Frequently Asked Questions About Gross
What is the meaning of "Gross"?
The total amount before anything is subtracted. Opposite of net. For example, gross salary is your pay before taxes are taken out.
How do you pronounce "Gross"?
The IPA is /ɡroʊs/. GROHSS. One syllable: GROHSS. Stress the single syllable strongly. Rhymes with 'loss', 'boss', 'toss'.
What part of speech is "Gross"?
"Gross" is an adjective at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Gross"?
Common synonyms include total, entire, whole.
How do you use "Gross" in a sentence?
For example: "The company reported gross revenue of $10 million for the quarter."