a big affair

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big affair" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an event or situation that is significant, elaborate, or important in nature. Example: "The wedding was a big affair, with hundreds of guests and extravagant decorations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The Spring opening of local Frank Campbell was also a big affair, with orchestra, etc.

The New Yorker

Given Jon's unceremonious death it presumably wouldn't be a big affair, though perhaps Sam will show up to burn his friend's body?

Independent

The NATO gathering was a big affair, spread over two days, attended by leaders of the alliance and special guests, among them the presidents of Afghanistan and Russia.

The Economist

Guadagnino tells the story of a grande bourgeoise in Milan (Tilda Swinton), a woman from Russia who is married to the scion of a great Italian industrial family and has a big affair with the burry, inarticulate, but talented chef whom one of her grown sons has befriended.

The New Yorker

McMahon denies the rumor that Carson has become anti-social because of his abstinence: "If it's a big affair, you'll maybe find him in a corner, talking one to one, but in a small group he can be the life of the party, doing tricks, killing everybody".

The New Yorker

Still, he told Cohen he'd like the ceremony to be a "big" affair. .

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Lunch Lunch was a bigger affair, but at least had packed my lunchbox.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The head of communications, who also edits Motorwelt, multiplied the votes for the Golf by a factor of 10, from 3,409 to 34,299, to make the vote seem a bigger affair than it was.

The Economist

Get their attention and make them notice your effort by making it a bigger affair than it actually is.

WikiHow

"It's a pretty big affair from the view of the media and for politicians, but if you look at public opinion, it's not so compelling," said Bruno Jeanbart, director of political research at the OpinionWay polling institute in Paris.

The New York Times

Next: a Lebenberg dinner, which was a heavy affair, big on schnitzel and strudel, all washed down with tall glasses of Gösser beer.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a big affair" when you want to convey that an event or situation is not only large in scale but also complex or elaborate in its planning and execution.

Common error

Avoid using "a big affair" in casual conversation. It's better suited for formal writing or when describing events with a certain level of complexity and planning. In everyday speech, simpler alternatives like "a big deal" or "a major event" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big affair" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object to describe an event, situation, or undertaking. As per Ludwig AI, it's considered grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

5%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big affair" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe events or situations of considerable scale and complexity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not overly common, it finds frequent application in news and media contexts. When using the phrase, ensure it aligns with the intended meaning of a complex, elaborate event. Alternatives like "a major event" or "a significant undertaking" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A major event

Replaces "affair" with "event" emphasizing the occurrence rather than the complex nature of the happening.

An important occasion

Highlights the importance and special nature of the event.

A significant undertaking

Emphasizes the effort and commitment involved, shifting focus from the event itself.

A grand celebration

Focuses on the celebratory aspect, implying festivity and joy.

An elaborate production

Stresses the complexity and detailed planning involved.

A large-scale operation

Highlights the size and scope of the activity.

A considerable enterprise

Emphasizes the ambitious nature and scope of the project.

A momentous happening

Highlights the historical or lasting impact of the event.

A noteworthy incident

Suggests that the event is worthy of attention or remembrance.

A remarkable circumstance

Implies that the situation is unusual or exceptional.

FAQs

How can I use "a big affair" in a sentence?

You can use "a big affair" to describe an event or situation that is elaborate, important, or significant. For example: "The wedding was "a big affair", with hundreds of guests and a meticulously planned reception."

What are some alternatives to "a big affair"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a major event", "a significant undertaking", or "an important occasion".

Is it appropriate to use "a big affair" in formal writing?

Yes, "a big affair" is suitable for formal writing when describing events or situations that are complex and require significant planning and execution.

What is the difference between "a big affair" and "a big deal"?

"A big deal" typically refers to something that is important or significant, whereas "a big affair" implies not only importance but also complexity and elaborate planning. The terms are not interchangeable because "a big deal" does not specifically imply complexity.