an absolute whopper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an absolute whopper" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is extremely large, significant, or exaggerated, often in a humorous or informal context. Example: "When he told me he ran a marathon without training, I thought that was an absolute whopper."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

This was like to be "una mole di derby" – an absolute whopper of a derby.

The Guardian - Sport

He is now also short of a senior assistant just as Villa, without a win in eight matches, and faces four matches in a fortnight - all against fellow strugglers". An absolute whopper of a transfer rumour in the Daily Express today.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

To that absolute whopper you may care to add the one Ukip was floating this morning, which is that people don't dare fly the St George flag.

The Guardian

The truth, as everyone in that area knows, is that there's a sliding scale – degrees one might say of degradation, which range from the tiddler to the absolute whopper – and worse.

The Guardian - Opinion

Is there any bigger indication of what a nation of absolute whoppers we've become than this nascent "tradition"?

Vice

It was an absolute.

The New York Times

The title of Ursula Martinez's latest show is both a great big whopper and the absolute truth.

The Guardian

A Big Mac or a whopper?

The Guardian

And a regular Whopper as a baseline for comparison.

The Washington Post

The Whopper Bars serve items like a Bourbon Whopper and a New York Pizza Burger, and customers choose additional toppings like pepperoni, onion rings or guacamole.

The New York Times

He was, like me, waiting on an Impossible Whopper.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an absolute whopper" to add emphasis and a slightly humorous tone when describing something that is either very large or clearly untrue. It is most effective in informal or journalistic contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "an absolute whopper" in formal writing or professional settings, as its informal tone may undermine the seriousness of the message. Opt for more neutral or formal alternatives like "a complete fabrication" or "a significant misrepresentation".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an absolute whopper" functions as a descriptive expression, typically modifying a noun or statement. Ludwig AI confirms its role in emphasizing the magnitude or falsity of something, aligning with its usage in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"An absolute whopper" is an informal phrase used to describe something that is either extremely large or a complete lie. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct. While its use is not very common, it effectively adds emphasis and a slightly humorous tone, particularly in journalistic contexts. Alternatives include "a blatant lie" or "a monumental exaggeration". Avoid its use in formal settings where a more neutral tone is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a whopping great lie

Similar to the original phrase, emphasizing the size of the lie.

a complete fabrication

Focuses on the untruthful aspect, implying something is entirely made up.

a blatant lie

Emphasizes the obviousness and audacity of the lie.

a colossal untruth

Highlights the magnitude and falsity of the statement.

a monumental exaggeration

Stresses the overstatement and inflation of facts.

a substantial untruth

Focuses on the significant nature of the untrue statement.

a gross misrepresentation

Indicates a distortion of the truth, often intentional.

a tall tale

Suggests a story that is greatly exaggerated and hard to believe.

a huge lie

Simple and direct synonym, focusing on the size of the lie.

an outrageous falsehood

Highlights the shocking and untrue nature of the statement.

FAQs

What does "an absolute whopper" mean?

The phrase "an absolute whopper" means something that is either extremely large or a blatant lie. It's often used to express disbelief or amusement at the scale of something.

How can I use "an absolute whopper" in a sentence?

You can use "an absolute whopper" to describe something surprising or unbelievable. For example: "When he told me he'd won the lottery, I thought it was "a complete fabrication"."

What can I say instead of "an absolute whopper"?

You can use alternatives like "a blatant lie", "a monumental exaggeration", or "a tall tale" depending on the context.

Is "an absolute whopper" formal or informal?

"An absolute whopper" is considered informal. It's best used in casual conversation or writing rather than formal or professional contexts. Use formal alternatives such as "significant misrepresentation" in professional contexts.