as big a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as big a" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to compare sizes or quantities, often in a context where something is being emphasized. Example: "This project is as big a challenge as we have ever faced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General Usage

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He's as big a dictator as Saddam".

The New York Times

"It was clear he wasn't as big a fan".

The New York Times

"I wanted as big a place as possible," he said.

The New York Times

That received as big a cheer as any Brown mustered.

Independent

"This is as big a deal as the industrial revolution.

The Guardian - Tech

We just don't make as big a deal of it.

The New York Times - Sports

"Unfortunately, Italian film is not as big a client".

The New York Times

"Today, recession is as big a threat as deficits".

The Guardian

"It is not as big a change as people think.

The New York Times

"The proprietary credit card is not as big a benefit".

The New York Times

Apparently he's "not quite as big a name as Robinho".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as big a" when you want to emphasize the surprising or notable size or extent of something in comparison to something else.

Common error

Avoid using "so big a" when "as big a" is grammatically correct. "So big a" is less common and can sound awkward in formal writing. Instead of "It wasn't so big a deal", use "It wasn't as big a deal".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as big a" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase. It's used to indicate that something possesses a similar degree of size, impact, or significance when compared to something else. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Sports

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as big a" is a common and grammatically correct comparative phrase used to emphasize similarity in size, impact, or significance. As noted by Ludwig, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "as large a" or "as significant a" exist, the choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey. Remember to avoid using "so big a" in formal writing, as "as big a" is generally preferred. By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively use "as big a" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as large a

Focuses on the measurement of size, being a direct synonym.

as great a

Focuses on the intensity or degree.

as huge a

An informal synonym for "large", emphasizing scale.

as substantial a

Emphasizes the amount or degree, suitable when size implies significance.

as massive a

Implies very large scale or impact.

as significant a

Highlights the importance or consequence rather than physical size.

as considerable a

Suggests a notable extent or degree.

as immense a

Similar to massive, but can also suggest something immeasurable.

as tremendous a

Stresses the force or impact, often positive.

as vast a

Describes expansive scale or range.

FAQs

How to use "as big a" in a sentence?

You can use "as big a" to compare the size, impact, or importance of something to something else. For example, "This project is "as big a challenge" as we have ever faced" or "That was "as big a surprise" as I could imagine".

What can I say instead of "as big a"?

Alternatives include "as large a", "as substantial a", or "as significant a", depending on the specific context and the aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it correct to say "so big a" instead of "as big a"?

While "so big a" might be used in informal contexts, "as big a" is generally preferred in formal writing. "As big a" is more grammatically standard and widely accepted.

What is the difference between "as big a" and "as big as"?

"As big a" is used when comparing something to a general quality or concept, whereas "as big as" is used for direct comparisons. For example, "This is "as big a problem"" refers to the magnitude, while "This is "as big as that"" makes a specific size comparison.