a large picture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a large picture" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the size of an image or when discussing a broader concept or idea in a metaphorical sense. Example: "In order to understand the issue fully, we need to take a step back and look at a large picture of the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

A large picture on the wall explains it.

The New York Times - Arts

He posed before a large picture of Lord Ram.

The Economist

As if a great picture were a large picture.

The Guardian - Books

Sitting on the stage along with all the instruments was a large picture of Mr. Toro.

The New York Times

The kitchen has a built-in desk beneath a large picture window that faces north.

The New York Times

A large picture of the Canadiens great Maurice Richard dominates a wall in the small foyer.

The New York Times - Sports

A large picture from 1944, however, decisively breaks with garden variety Modernism.

The New York Times - Arts

I've tried pinwheels, yelling and even a large picture of an owl.

The New York Times - Science

And somewhere over Washington, D.C., there would be a large picture of George P. Pelecanos.

The New Yorker

Above a large picture of her was the headline: "Now she really has wings".

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The photos of Garcia traced his career, with the centerpiece being a large picture of him posing with Muhammad Ali.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, use "a large picture" to clearly convey the size. For abstract concepts, consider if "a big picture" or another alternative might be more suitable.

Common error

Avoid using "a large picture" when you actually mean a comprehensive understanding or overview. Instead, use phrases like "the big picture" or "a comprehensive view".

Linguistic Context

A large picture functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'large' modifies 'picture'. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct. It is used to describe something of considerable size.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a large picture" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves primarily to describe the size of a visual representation, whether physical or metaphorical. While its register is generally neutral, its usage is particularly frequent in news and media contexts. Consider using more specific or formal alternatives depending on the context, such as "the big picture" for abstract concepts, or "a sizable image" in formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a big picture

Synonymous, differing only in the adjective used to describe the size.

a huge picture

Emphasizes an even greater size than "large".

a sizable picture

Indicates the picture is of considerable size.

a massive picture

Suggests the picture is very large and potentially imposing.

an expansive image

Focuses on the breadth and scope of the image.

a broad depiction

Emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the visual representation.

a wide view

Highlights the extensive perspective offered by the picture.

a panoramic shot

Specifies a wide-angle view, often used in photography or film.

a full-scale representation

Indicates the picture is the same size as what it represents.

a grand vista

Suggests a picture with a stunning and impressive view.

FAQs

How can I use "a large picture" in a sentence?

You can use "a large picture" to describe the size of a physical image, as in, "There was a large picture of the band on the wall", or to refer to a broad understanding of a situation.

What are some alternatives to "a large picture" when referring to scope?

When referring to the scope or understanding of a situation, consider using phrases like "the big picture", "a comprehensive view", or "the overall context".

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

Both "a large picture" and "a big picture" are acceptable, but "a large picture" might sound slightly more formal, while "a big picture" is more common in everyday speech.

Can "a large picture" refer to abstract concepts?

While primarily used to describe physical images, "a large picture" can sometimes be used metaphorically to refer to a comprehensive understanding, though phrases like "the big picture" are more common in that context.