almost double the size

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "almost double the size" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase when referring to something that is increasing in size, but not quite doubling. For example: "This summer's crop of tomatoes was almost double the size last year's."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

At market exchange rates, the American economy is still almost double the size of China's (83% larger, to be precise).

The Guardian - Business

Plans to almost double the size of the district will only increase the clout of its planning board.

The New York Times

But there was anger over news that the RBS board chose to almost double the size of his pension pot.

Independent

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough until it is 3-4mm thick and almost double the size of the dishes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"For the first time we will see the commercial deployment of a 6MW wind turbine, almost double the size of the typical existing turbines," he added.

The Guardian

Russia is a big country, almost double the size of the U.S., and like London isn't Britain (and Kiev isn't Ukraine), Moscow isn't Russia.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

In the five years I was here, I almost doubled the size of the collection.

The New Yorker

The marsh would take up 2.3 acres, almost doubling the size of the present state park.

The New York Times

If the purchase goes through, it will be Google's largest ever acquisition, almost doubling the size of its workforce.

The Economist

Meanwhile, the hospital is in the process of almost doubling the size of its emergency department, to nearly 22,000 square feet, on East Post Road.

The New York Times

Ministers say they are confident that the capability gap can be filled by almost doubling the size of the Reserves to 30,000 and "integrating" them into the regular army.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "almost double the size", ensure the comparison is clear and the units of measurement are consistent. For example, specify if you're referring to area, volume, or linear dimension.

Common error

Avoid using "almost double the size" without providing context for what is being doubled. Ensure the reference point is evident to prevent ambiguity for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "almost double the size" functions as a descriptive modifier, quantifying an increase in magnitude. According to Ludwig AI, it suggests a quantifiable expansion without reaching the exact doubling point. Examples show it used to describe physical spaces, populations, and even abstract concepts like market size.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

30%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "almost double the size" is a versatile phrase used to describe a significant, near-twofold increase. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the expression is grammatically correct and commonly used in diverse contexts, spanning news, science, and general writing. To maximize clarity and accuracy, specify what exactly is being doubled and maintain consistent units of measurement. While applicable across different registers, the phrase maintains a neutral tone, suitable for formal and informal communication. Related phrases, such as ""nearly twice as big"" or "approximately twice the dimensions", offer alternatives for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearly twice as big

Replaces "almost double" with "nearly twice", offering a simpler phrasing.

approximately twice the dimensions

Substitutes "almost double the size" with a more formal synonym.

close to double the area

Replaces "size" with "area", focusing on a specific measurement.

in the vicinity of double the magnitude

Offers a more verbose alternative, emphasizing the extent of increase.

practically twice the volume

Substitutes "almost double" with "practically twice" and "size" with "volume".

virtually double the capacity

Replaces "almost" with "virtually" and "size" with "capacity", altering the nuance.

just shy of twice the measurement

Rephrases the concept using "just shy of", indicating a slight difference.

not quite double the extent

Emphasizes that the doubling is not fully achieved.

almost twice the scale

Replaces "size" with "scale", suggesting a change in proportion.

in the neighborhood of doubling the spatial extent

A more elaborate and formal way to convey a similar idea.

FAQs

How can I use "almost double the size" in a sentence?

You can use "almost double the size" to describe an increase that is close to, but not quite, a full doubling. For example: "The new factory is "nearly twice as big" as the old one."

What's a more formal alternative to "almost double the size"?

A more formal alternative would be "approximately twice the dimensions". This phrasing is suitable for academic or professional writing.

Is it accurate to use "almost double the size" if something is slightly more than double?

No, "almost double the size" implies that the increase is slightly less than a full doubling. If something is slightly more than double, you could say it is "more than double the size" or "over double the size".

What's the difference between "almost double the size" and ""nearly twice as big""?

The phrases are semantically similar. "Almost double the size" focuses on the doubling action and its imprecision. "Nearly twice as big" emphasizes the resulting size relative to the original.