at large

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at large" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to someone or something that is not confined or is generally known or prevalent in a particular area or context. Example: "The suspect is still at large, and the police are urging anyone with information to come forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

REPORTER AT LARGE about penguins.

The New Yorker

REPORTER AT LARGE about wrestling.

The New Yorker

REPORTER AT LARGE about Gibraltar.

The New Yorker

REPORTER AT LARGE about Uruguay.

The New Yorker

REPORTER AT LARGE about pollution.

The New Yorker

REPORTER AT LARGE about Morocco.

The New Yorker

REPORTER AT LARGE about Mongolia.

The New Yorker

REPORTER AT LARGE about Micronesia.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Campus Editor-at-Large.

Huffington Post

Editor-at-large, HuffPost.

Huffington Post

Editor-at-Large, ChicagoPride.com.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at large" to describe a person, ensure the context clearly indicates they are either a fugitive or a representative acting on behalf of a larger group. This helps avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "at large" when you mean "in charge". "At large" suggests freedom or generality, not authority or control.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at large" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes a state of being unconfined or representing a whole, as supported by Ludwig AI's analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Formal & Business

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at large" commonly signifies being unconfined or representing an entire group or area. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and widely used, especially in news and media. While alternatives like "on the loose" exist, the choice depends on the specific context and desired nuance. When writing, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to someone evading capture or acting in a general capacity. Be mindful of misinterpretations, such as confusing it with phrases indicating authority. Overall, "at large" is a versatile phrase that can add precision to your writing when used correctly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not confined

Directly negates the state of being restricted or imprisoned.

roaming freely

Implies unrestricted movement or wandering.

on the loose

Focuses specifically on the idea of escaping confinement or capture.

on the run

Suggests an active effort to avoid capture.

unrestrained

Emphasizes the lack of control or limitation.

in general

Highlights the broad or widespread nature of something.

across the board

Indicates that something applies to everyone or everything.

overall

Indicates a comprehensive view or perspective.

in the community

Specifies the context to a local population or group.

representing all districts

Relates to electoral representation across an entire region.

FAQs

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

You can use "at large" to describe someone who is not captured, like "The suspect is still "at large"". It can also mean "in general", as in "The community "at large" benefits from these programs".

What does "at large" mean when referring to an elected official?

When an elected official is described as "at large", it means they represent the entire jurisdiction rather than a specific district. They are elected by all voters in the area they serve.

What's the difference between "at large" and "on the loose"?

"At large" and "on the loose" both describe someone or something not confined, but "on the loose" often carries a stronger connotation of danger or unpredictability. Using "on the loose" implies a greater potential for harm or disruption.

Is it correct to say "a large" instead of "at large"?

No, "a large" and "at large" are not interchangeable. "A large" describes size, while "at large" indicates freedom from captivity or generality. For example, "a large dog" is different from "a dog "at large"".