doing something big

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "doing something big" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe undertaking a significant or ambitious project or action. Example: "This year, our organization is focused on doing something big to address climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

I'm doing something big".

The New Yorker

We are so close to doing something big and smart.

The New York Times

"But I'm doing something big here, and they know that".

The New York Times

How about doing something big that is not liberal?

The New Yorker

"I am happy to be doing something big," Jordan wrote before heading up the mountain.

The New York Times - Sports

"If we focus on doing something big, 'grand bargainesque,' we will fail," Mr. Ryan said in an interview Thursday.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Is it worth doing something bigger?

The New York Times

Focus on doing something bigger".

Huffington Post

And for her, it's about doing something bigger.

Huffington Post

"I just want to do something big.

Independent

Do something big, make the regular polyhedrons.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing future plans or aspirations, "doing something big" is most impactful when followed by details about the intended outcome or specific objectives.

Common error

While effective, "doing something big" can become cliché if overused. Vary your language by incorporating more specific descriptions of the actions and outcomes you're discussing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "doing something big" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. Ludwig AI shows it often serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing an action or goal. For example, "He dreamed of doing something big."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "doing something big" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express ambition and impactful action. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is most frequently found in News & Media contexts, indicating its broad applicability. While generally neutral, its impact can be amplified by providing specific details about the intended outcomes. To avoid overuse, consider related alternatives like "achieving a major goal" or "making a significant impact". When employing the phrase, ensure your usage reflects the desired scale and ambition, contributing effectively to the overall message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

achieving a major goal

Focuses on the accomplishment aspect, highlighting the attainment of a significant objective.

making a significant impact

Emphasizes the effect or influence resulting from the action, rather than the action itself.

undertaking an ambitious project

Highlights the scale and difficulty of the endeavor being pursued.

making a grand gesture

Implies a bold and showy action, often intended to impress or influence others.

leaving a lasting legacy

Focuses on the enduring impact or memory created by one's actions.

setting the world on fire

A more figurative expression suggesting a transformative or revolutionary impact.

breaking new ground

Highlights innovation and pioneering efforts in a particular field.

raising the bar

Focuses on surpassing existing standards or expectations in a specific area.

reaching for the stars

A more aspirational expression emphasizing ambition and striving for the seemingly impossible.

changing the game

Suggests a fundamental shift or disruption in a particular industry or field.

FAQs

How can I use "doing something big" in a sentence?

You can use "doing something big" to describe ambitious projects or actions. For example: "She dreams of "doing something big" in the field of environmental conservation."

What's a more formal alternative to "doing something big"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "undertaking a significant endeavor" or "achieving a major objective" as alternatives to "doing something big".

Is it correct to say "do something big" instead of "doing something big"?

Both "do something big" and "doing something big" are grammatically correct, but they have different uses. "Do something big" is often used as an imperative or a suggestion, while "doing something big" is a gerund phrase that functions as a noun.

What kind of impact does "doing something big" usually imply?

"Doing something big" implies a significant and noticeable impact, often involving innovation, broad reach, or lasting consequences. It suggests actions that go beyond the ordinary.