a big sucker

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big sucker" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used informally to describe someone who is easily deceived or taken advantage of, or to express fondness for something. Example: "I always end up buying the latest gadgets; I'm just a big sucker for technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"He's a big sucker," he said of Ballard.

The New York Times - Sports

I'm a big sucker for nonfiction, both biographies and books about music and film, and this was a particularly interesting one.

The Guardian - Film

During his conversation with the undercover agent, captured on tape four months ago, he said he had become a weakling in Miami Beach, "a big sucker".

The New York Times

He is a big sucker for the hard worker and is rarely dazzled by brilliance.

Huffington Post

You Know I'm a big sucker for a woman in a wimple And when you smile you really have this sexy little dimple.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

A big mean sucker of a hurricane is aimed straight at us".

The New York Times

When it comes to consumer electronics, I'm a big fat sucker, because even though I know you should never, ever buy anything until the second version of it is released, I just can't resist.

The New Yorker

I'm a big, fat sucker who's a glutton for punishment guy who'll get an okay deal after all, so I'll eventually be laying out a grand total of $70 $57 for Tiger and the MotionPlus doodad.

TechCrunch

But after years of being the franchise that was too dumb to realize it was the big sucker at the poker table, watching the Maple Leafs slowly but surely navigate themselves back to something resembling respectability has been fascinating.

The Guardian - Sport

He resides in a wide, sleek building that gives the illusion of floating in midair, and he zips around in a white electric dragonfly; those big suckers need servicing by drones — each of which is like a very angry Wall-E — and his job is to service those in turn.

The New Yorker

"We're big suckers".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a big sucker" to describe a person, be mindful of the context and your audience, as it can be perceived as derogatory. Consider using it in a lighthearted or self-deprecating manner to avoid causing offense.

Common error

Avoid using "a big sucker" in formal or professional settings where a more respectful and objective tone is required. Opt for alternatives like "easily influenced" or "naive" to maintain professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big sucker" functions primarily as a descriptive term, often used informally to characterize someone as easily deceived or having a strong liking for something. Ludwig AI analysis shows varied uses of the phrase, from describing a person's gullibility to expressing fondness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a big sucker" is an informal expression used to describe someone who is easily fooled or has a strong fondness for something. Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as grammatically correct, although somewhat informal. While primarily found in news and media sources, it's crucial to consider the context and audience before using it, as it can be perceived as derogatory. Alternatives like "easily fooled person" or ""a soft touch"" may be more appropriate in formal settings. Being mindful of the connotation ensures effective and respectful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sucker for something

Similar structure, but omits "big" and focuses on fondness rather than gullibility.

an easy target

Highlights the vulnerability aspect, portraying the person as susceptible to being taken advantage of.

a soft touch

Emphasizes the compassionate nature that makes someone easily persuaded or exploited.

someone easily deceived

Focuses on the characteristic of being prone to deception, removing the informal tone.

a pushover

Indicates someone who is easily influenced or controlled.

easily fooled person

Replaces the idiomatic expression with a more direct description of someone who is easily tricked.

easily manipulated person

Focuses on the susceptibility to manipulation, often for personal gain.

a gullible individual

Uses a more formal adjective to describe someone who is easily convinced.

one who falls for anything

Highlights the lack of discernment in believing things, suggesting naivety.

an admirer of

Expresses a strong liking or fondness for something, removing the negative connotation of being a 'sucker'.

FAQs

What does it mean to call someone "a big sucker"?

Calling someone "a big sucker" means they are easily fooled, gullible, or easily persuaded to do something, often to their disadvantage. It can also indicate a fondness for something.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a big sucker"?

The phrase "a big sucker" is generally appropriate in informal settings, among friends, or in self-deprecating humor. Avoid using it in formal or professional contexts where a more respectful tone is necessary.

What can I say instead of "a big sucker" to describe someone easily fooled?

You can use alternatives like "an easy target", "a gullible individual", or "a soft touch" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between saying someone is "a sucker" and "a big sucker"?

Saying someone is "a sucker" and "a big sucker" is similar in meaning. The addition of "big" emphasizes the degree to which the person is easily fooled or has a strong fondness for something. It amplifies the characteristic.