a big thing

USAGE SUMMARY

"a big thing" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate something that has a great physical size, or when referring to something significant, such as a large event. For example, "This is a big thing; it's a once in a lifetime opportunity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

That's a big thing.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a big thing".

The New York Times

Yes, it's a big thing.

The New York Times

Reputation is a big thing.

Independent

Hair is a big thing".

Independent

"It's a big thing now.

Independent

"And that's a big thing.

The New York Times - Sports

"Not a big thing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Ultra is a big thing.

Huffington Post

"I think respect's a big thing.

BMC Medical Education

"That was a big thing for me".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a big thing" to emphasize the significance of something, but be mindful of your audience. In formal contexts, consider using more precise language to convey importance.

Common error

While "a big thing" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid using it excessively in formal writing. Over-reliance on this phrase can make your writing sound less professional. Instead, opt for more specific and impactful language to describe significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big thing" functions primarily as a noun phrase acting as a subjective complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to denote something of significance, importance, or considerable impact. For example, "That was a big thing for him".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

14%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big thing" is a common phrase used to emphasize the importance or significance of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts, although more formal writing may benefit from more precise language. Its frequency is high across news and media, as well as in more informal contexts like wikis. While the phrase is versatile, writers should be mindful of its suitability for different registers and audiences. Alternative phrases, such as "a major deal" or "a significant matter", can provide more nuanced ways to express importance in specific situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major deal

Emphasizes the importance or impact of something, often in a business or negotiation context.

a significant matter

Highlights the importance and seriousness of an issue or situation.

a crucial point

Focuses on the essential nature of a specific aspect or detail.

an important element

Indicates that something is a necessary part of a larger whole.

a key factor

Stresses the influential role something plays in determining an outcome.

a notable event

Highlights that something is interesting, significant, or unusual.

a weighty issue

Suggests that something is serious and requires careful consideration.

something of consequence

Indicates that something has important results or effects.

a substantial development

Highlights the considerable progress or change that has occurred.

a landmark occasion

Emphasizes the historical significance or uniqueness of an event.

FAQs

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

You can use "a big thing" to emphasize the significance of something. For example, "Getting this promotion is "a big thing" for my career".

What are some alternatives to saying "a big thing"?

Alternatives include "a major deal", "a significant matter", or "a crucial point", depending on the specific context.

Is "a big thing" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a big thing" is generally more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. For formal writing, consider using more precise and impactful language to convey significance.

What does it mean when someone says something is "a big thing"?

It means that whatever is being discussed is important, significant, or has a substantial impact. The specific meaning depends on the context in which it's used.