a big demonstration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big demonstration" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a large public gathering or protest, often to express a particular viewpoint or demand change. Example: "The city was filled with people as they gathered for a big demonstration advocating for climate action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

"A big demonstration, under real operating conditions".

The New York Times

A big demonstration is already planned for January 22nd.

The Economist

A big demonstration was organized in Taiz, Yemen's second biggest city.

The New York Times

The Spanish auction came as Madrid was bracing for a big demonstration outside Parliament on Tuesday evening.

The New York Times

We all took part in a big demonstration - the first big one that went around the world.

The Guardian - Film

"Our goal was not simply to have a big demonstration, but to give the movement confidence that it could prevail.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

After another week of carnage, activists were hoping for a bigger demonstration in the city on Saturday night.

The Guardian

As the drama played out in parliament, a few hundred protesters rallied outside the building, after a bigger demonstration by thousands the previous night.

The Guardian

They made a big deal out of it, and managed to create a very big demonstration against the Islamic Center, and they really got this message out that it was, as Geller called it, a 'Victory Mosque,' a triumphal monument to the people who slaughtered Americans on 9/11.

University of California, Berkeley

Waiting for them are several European policemen, usually armed with revolvers or, where a really big demonstration is expected, with rifles also.

The Economist

It stared down city officials to hang on to its makeshift headquarters, showed its muscle Saturday with a big Times Square demonstration and found legions of activists demonstrating in solidarity across the country and around the world.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a big demonstration", consider the specific aspect you want to emphasize: the size, the cause, or the impact. Choose synonyms accordingly to convey the intended meaning effectively.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "big" to describe the demonstration. Use more descriptive adjectives like "passionate", "peaceful", or "powerful" to provide a clearer picture to your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big demonstration" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific event, namely a large public gathering. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing its usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big demonstration" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a large public gathering or protest. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is suitable for use in news reports, academic papers, and general discussions. While "big" is a common adjective, consider using more descriptive alternatives to enhance clarity and impact. Remember to focus on the aspect of the demonstration you wish to highlight—its size, cause, or impact—and choose synonyms accordingly for the best effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a large protest

Focuses on the act of protesting, emphasizing the scale.

a major rally

Highlights the gathering aspect, emphasizing a show of support or opposition.

a significant march

Emphasizes the movement and procession of people.

a massive gathering

Focuses on the size and number of people involved.

a widespread demonstration

Highlights the geographical reach or extent of the demonstration.

a considerable protest

Stresses the importance and impact of the protest.

an extensive rally

Emphasizes the comprehensive nature or duration of the rally.

a grand demonstration

Highlights the ambition and pomp of the demonstration.

a sizable protest

Indicates the relatively large size of the protest.

a substantial march

Stresses the considerable size or importance of the march.

FAQs

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

You can use "a big demonstration" to describe a large public gathering for a cause. For example: "There was a big demonstration in the capital city protesting the new law."

What can I say instead of "a big demonstration"?

You can use alternatives like "a large protest", "a major rally", or "a significant march" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "a big demonstration" or "a large demonstration"?

Both "a big demonstration" and "a large demonstration" are correct. The choice depends on the context and your preference. "Large" might sound slightly more formal.

What's the difference between "a protest" and "a demonstration"?

While often used interchangeably, "protest" generally refers to an expression of disapproval, while "demonstration" can encompass a broader range of public displays, including support or celebration.