a colossal work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a colossal work" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a project, piece of art, or any significant effort that is large in scale or impact. Example: "The construction of the new bridge is considered a colossal work that will transform the city's infrastructure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The last great monument of the central Javanese period, Lara Jonggrang at Prambanan, is indeed a colossal work, rivaling Borobudur.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Tonight's program begins with the very first sonata, No. 1 in F minor, as well as four others, including No. 11 in B flat, a colossal work you almost never hear.

The New York Times

We found him in his studio supervising a couple of assistants, all three dwarfed by the sloping mounds and cavities of a colossal work in progress made out of white poly­styrene.

The Guardian - Arts

Once regarded as an eyesore, the sign is generally embraced today as a symbol of Long Island City's industrial past, as a colossal work of Pop Art and as a way for those who live in the six buildings of TF Cornerstone's Long Island City development to orient friends and families.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The adjective "Wagnerian" has entered popular discourse as a synonym for "grandiose," but this colossal work is, in fact, a devastating deconstruction of the grand illusions of gods, men and dwarves.

The New York Times

Although it is disappointing that the Met did not send some of its really great Hudson River School masterpieces to New Britain, specifically Church's "The Heart of the Andes" (1859), a colossal, dazzling work, this is a beautiful, thoughtful and ultimately satisfying little show with much to recommend it.

The New York Times

This year, it played host to a colossal new work from the French artist Daniel Buren.

Vice

This year it played host to a colossal new work from French artist Daniel Buren.

Vice

This year it plays host to a colossal new work from the British sculptor, Anish Kapoor.

Vice

But the set is intrusive and distracting, and Mr. Lepage brings no particular directorial insight to this colossal work.

The New York Times - Arts

Indeed, we know about this period of Jewish history in large part thanks to Josephus, whose colossal work "Jewish Antiquities" undertook to record the entire history of the Jews, for the benefit of a non-Jewish, Greek-speaking audience.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a colossal work" to describe projects or creations that are not only large in physical size but also significant in impact or scope. It is particularly effective when conveying a sense of awe or admiration.

Common error

Avoid using "a colossal work" to describe everyday tasks or minor achievements. The phrase's impact is diminished when applied to something that doesn't truly warrant such a grand description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a colossal work" functions as a noun phrase, where "colossal" serves as an adjective modifying the noun "work". It describes the size, scale, or impact of a particular endeavor, project, or creation. As Ludwig AI explains, it characterizes something significant.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a colossal work" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that effectively describes something of immense size, scale, or importance. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While relatively rare in occurrence, it's found across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and business communications. Its function is to emphasize significance and often inspire admiration. When writing, be mindful of applying it appropriately to avoid diluting its impact. Consider using alternative phrases like "a monumental achievement" or "an epic undertaking" for nuanced meaning. The best sources for the phrase include The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a monumental achievement

Emphasizes the accomplishment aspect, suggesting great skill and effort were involved.

an epic undertaking

Highlights the scale and ambition of the project, often with connotations of adventure or challenge.

a remarkable accomplishment

Emphasizes the positive outcome and success of the work, focusing on its noteworthy nature.

a grand creation

Focuses on the artistry or design of the work, suggesting beauty and intricacy.

an ambitious undertaking

Focuses on the high goals and challenging nature of the work.

a massive project

Emphasizes the sheer size and scope of the undertaking.

an immense endeavor

Highlights the effort and resources required, suggesting a challenging and complex task.

a prodigious feat

Stresses the skill and ingenuity required to complete the work.

an extraordinary piece

Highlights the exceptional quality and uniqueness of the work.

a sweeping effort

Highlights the broad scope and comprehensive nature of the work.

FAQs

How can I use "a colossal work" in a sentence?

You can use "a colossal work" to describe something of great size, scale, or importance, such as "The construction of the dam was "a colossal work" of engineering."

What are some alternatives to "a colossal work"?

Some alternatives to "a colossal work" include "a monumental achievement", "an epic undertaking", or "a massive project", depending on the specific context.

Is "colossal work" formal or informal?

"Colossal work" leans towards the formal side but it is acceptable in neutral registers as well. You might use it in academic writing or professional reports, but it is also appropriate for news articles or documentaries.

What makes something qualify as "a colossal work"?

A "colossal work" is typically characterized by its immense size, complexity, and the significant resources or effort required to complete it. It often implies a lasting impact or legacy.