largeness
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈɑːdʒnəs/
US
- /ˈlɑrdʒnɪs/
Description
- big size
- great extent
- vastness
- broad scope
- greatness
Largeness is the state of being large in size, extent, or scope. It is a somewhat formal or literary noun, and people often use it when they want to stress not just size, but the feeling of something being wide, great, or impressive. Think of the largeness of the ocean: not only its width, but also the sense that it goes on and on.
You can use it for physical things, as in the largeness of a cathedral or a desert. It is also common in abstract phrases such as "largeness of spirit" or "largeness of vision," where it means generosity, breadth of mind, or the ability to think beyond small concerns. In many cases, the word suggests more than simple measurement; it carries an idea of importance, depth, or reach.
Largeness refers to the state or quality of being large in size, extent, degree, or scope. While the adjective "large" simply describes something as big, the noun "largeness" often draws attention to the sense of scale it creates. It can suggest that something feels expansive, striking, or important, not just measurable.
You can use largeness for physical dimensions: the largeness of a desert, a building, a crowd, or a painting. In such cases, it points to great size or spread. But the word is also used in more abstract ways. A writer might speak of the "largeness of the human experience," meaning its wide range and depth. A leader may be praised for a "largeness of vision," meaning an ability to think far beyond immediate problems. The phrase "largeness of spirit" is also common, referring to generosity, kindness, and emotional breadth.
The word carries a little more weight than "large" does. It often sounds reflective, formal, or literary, especially when it is used to talk about character, ideas, or experience. You might call a painting large, but speak of its largeness if you want to stress the way it fills the room and affects the viewer. You might also speak of the largeness of a task, meaning not only that it is big, but that it feels serious and demanding. In short, "largeness" names both actual size and the broader sense of scale, reach, or generosity that size can suggest.
Examples
- 1
Furniture
The largeness of the old table made the kitchen feel crowded.
- 2
Landscape
From the hill, we could finally see the largeness of the valley.
- 3
Literature
The novel is impressive not just for its length, but for the largeness of its emotional world.
- 4
Public vision
Many voters responded to the largeness of her vision for public schools.
Phrase
largeness of vision
the ability to think in a broad, ambitious way
- 5
Generous reaction
He handled the insult with largeness of spirit.
Phrase
largeness of spirit
generosity and kindness, especially when someone could be angry
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- largenessnoun