big writer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "big writer" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward or unclear.
It could be used informally to describe a writer who is well-known or has a significant impact, but it is not standard terminology. Example: "She is a big writer in the world of contemporary fiction, known for her bestsellers."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"Here was this big writer writing about me," Masin said.

The New Yorker

He was the last big writer to be affected by Kipling's sentimental brutality.

The New Yorker

Cleave also takes an enormous gamble in adopting the voice of an unnamed, female narrator who states that she intends to do her best, "but you'll have to bear with me because I'm not a big writer".

The Guardian - Books

Michael Moorcock once wrote, "I think of myself as a bad writer with big ideas, but I'd rather be that than a big writer with… The TheatreWoman's WorldNell Benjamin, who co-wrote with her husband, Laurence O'Keefe, the music and lyrics for the Broadway hit "Legally Blonde," has written a new….

The New Yorker

He once wrote, "I think of myself as a bad writer with big ideas, but I'd rather be that than a big writer with bad ideas"  It is also a lovely irony that it was fifty years ago this year that Moorcock, then twenty-four years old, was offered the editorial helm of the British magazine New Worlds.

The New Yorker

He once wrote, "I think of myself as a bad writer with big ideas, but I'd rather be that than a big writer with bad ideas"**** **** It is also a lovely irony that it was fifty years ago this year that Moorcock, then twenty-four years old, was offered the editorial helm of the British magazine New Worlds.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Big writers become a kind of shared climate.

The New Yorker

So here's to big events, big books, big writers, and big money.

The New Yorker

"America just happened to have some big writers," he says.

The Guardian - Books

It has a romance imprint, and has signed big writers like Timothy Ferriss, author of "The 4-Hour Workweek".

The Economist

On the subject of big writers, the NYRB release of Shakespeare's Montaigne (£10.99) is a treasure trove for bardolators.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a writer, consider using more specific adjectives like "renowned", "influential", or "accomplished" instead of "big" for a more polished and precise tone.

Common error

Avoid using "big writer" in academic papers or professional documents. Opt for more formal and descriptive alternatives such as "prominent author" or "significant literary figure".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "big writer" functions primarily as a noun phrase modifier, where the adjective "big" qualifies the noun "writer". Ludwig indicates that this phrase is acceptable but not the most standard terminology, suggesting a slightly informal usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "big writer" is an acceptable but somewhat informal way to describe a writer of significant influence or fame. While Ludwig indicates it's not the most standard terminology, it appears primarily in news and media contexts. For more formal or academic writing, consider using alternatives like "prominent writer", "renowned writer", or "influential writer" for greater precision and impact. While the phrase is understandable, choosing a more descriptive adjective can enhance the clarity and sophistication of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prominent writer

Focuses on the writer's visibility and importance.

renowned writer

Highlights the writer's widespread recognition and reputation.

famous writer

Emphasizes the writer's widespread popularity and recognition.

celebrated writer

Implies the writer is widely admired and praised.

influential writer

Focuses on the writer's impact on others.

notable writer

Indicates the writer is worthy of attention or notice.

major writer

Stresses the writer's significance and importance.

leading writer

Suggests the writer is at the forefront of their field.

accomplished writer

Highlights the writer's skill and achievements.

significant writer

Emphasizes the writer's importance and impact.

FAQs

What does "big writer" mean?

The phrase "big writer" typically refers to a writer who is well-known, influential, or successful in their field. It's an informal way of describing a writer with a significant reputation.

What are some alternatives to using "big writer"?

You can use alternatives like "prominent writer", "renowned writer", or "influential writer" to describe a writer with significant impact or recognition.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "big writer" in academic writing?

While understandable, "big writer" is generally too informal for academic writing. More appropriate choices would be "significant author", "notable scholar", or "leading voice" depending on the context.

How can I use "big writer" in a sentence?

You might say, "She is considered a "big writer" in the science fiction genre, known for her complex characters and imaginative worlds." However, consider if a more precise adjective would be more effective.