What is large? Pronunciation and usage in English

large means . Learn the correct pronunciation, how to use the word in real-life contexts with examples and easy-to-understand memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of large

largeadjective

/lɑːdʒ/
Definition & pronunciation of large

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "large" in English. There are a couple of common pronunciations, and it depends on where you are (American vs. British English).

1. American English (Most Common):

  • Sounds: ˈlɑːrdʒ

  • Breakdown:

    • ˈlɑːr - This part is tricky. It's not like the "lar" in "car." It's more like the "lar" in "yard" but with a slightly more open "a" sound. Think of saying "lar" but stretching it out a little and making the "a" sound a bit wider and flatter. It's almost like you're starting to say "lowr" but stopping before you reach the "r" sound.
    • -ge - This is a simple "j" sound. Like in "jog."

  • Putting it together: ˈlɑːrdʒ (Stress is on the first syllable)

2. British English:

  • Sounds: lɑːrdʒ (almost identical to American, but often shorter)
  • Breakdown: Very similar to American, but the vowel sound in the first syllable can be slightly shorter and less emphasized.

Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "lar" like in "car." This is the biggest mistake people make.
  • The 'a' sound in the first syllable is key. Focus on that open, slightly stretched "a" sound.
  • Practice: Say it slowly and repeatedly. Record yourself and compare it to a native speaker.

Resources for Hearing the Pronunciation:

  • Google Search: Simply search "how to pronounce large" on Google. You’ll find audio clips and videos.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/large/ - This website allows you to hear the word pronounced by native speakers from different countries.
  • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce large" – you'll find many helpful videos.

To help me give you even more specific guidance, could you tell me:

  • Where are you located? (e.g., United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, etc.) – This will help me tell you which pronunciation is most common.
  • What’s your current English level? (Beginner, intermediate, advanced?)

Usage and examples with the word large in English

Let's break down how to use the word "large" in English. It's a very common and versatile word, but it can be tricky to use correctly sometimes. Here's a breakdown of its uses, with examples:

1. Describing Size (Most Common Use)

  • Physical Size: This is the most frequent way "large" is used. It describes something that is big in physical dimensions.

    • "That's a large car." (It's bigger than a small car.)
    • "The room is large and airy." (It's spacious.)
    • "He has a large family." (He has many children.)
    • "She wore a large hat." (The hat is big.)

  • Quantity: "Large" can also describe a considerable amount of something.

    • "I'd like a large coffee, please." (A significant amount of coffee)
    • "They ordered large pizzas." (Multiple pizzas)
    • "We need a large supply of water." (A lot of water)

2. Describing Capacity

  • "Large" can refer to the capacity of a container.
    • "This box is large enough to hold all the books." (It's big enough to fit them.)
    • "I need a large water bottle." (A bottle that can hold a lot of water)

3. Describing Extent/Scope

  • "Large" can be used to describe the extent or scope of something, often referring to influence or impact.
    • "He has a large influence on the industry." (He has a significant effect.)
    • "The company operates on a large scale." (It's a big operation.)
    • "The project involved a large number of participants." (Many people were involved.)

4. More Formal/Literary Contexts

  • Large-Scale: Often used as part of a compound adjective.
    • "A large-scale study" (A study involving a lot of data and participants)
    • "A large-scale event" (A big event)

5. Comparisons & Intensifiers

  • "Large" is often used with words like "very," "extremely," or "much" to emphasize the size.
    • "It's a very large house." (More emphatic than just "large")
    • "He's a much larger person than I thought." (Significantly bigger)

Synonyms for "Large" (To Vary Your Language)

  • Big
  • Huge
  • Enormous
  • Massive
  • Considerable
  • Substantial
  • Vast
  • Extensive

Tips for Using "Large" Correctly:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "large" depends on the situation. Pay attention to what you're describing.
  • Consider stronger words: Sometimes, “huge” or “enormous” are more impactful than “large.”
  • Don’t overuse it: While it’s a common word, too much use can make your writing or speech repetitive. Use synonyms when appropriate.

Could you give me an example of how you'd like to use the word "large" in a sentence, or a specific situation where you're wondering how to use it? That way, I can give you even more tailored advice.

Synonyms for the word large

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