enormous

USAGE SUMMARY

'enormous' is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is an adjective used to describe something that is unusually large. Example sentence: The enormous tree was blocking the path.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A statement released on behalf of his family said: "It is with great sadness and an enormous sense of shock that we announce the death of Charles Kennedy.

The Guardian

"When the UK plays an active leading role in Europe we can achieve enormous things which we simply could not on our own," Clarke said.

The Guardian

Zarate: leave" – message displayed by Lazio supporters on enormous banners at the club's next home game.

The Guardian - Sport

To get to know someone so different from myself as an octopus, and to know that the individual recognised me and even enjoyed my company, was an enormous privilege.

The Guardian

Cameron said she had shown enormous sensitivity to past issues and problems, as well as the opportunities for the future.

The Guardian

He thought of it as his personal failure because he invested enormous energy into trying to keep the country together.

The Guardian

I doubt if those behind the campaign against him knew or cared about the effect their actions were having on a man who put enormous value on integrity.

The Guardian - Opinion

He [Aaron Jerome] wears this enormous mask.

The Guardian - Music

Its flamboyant facade divides opinion (it looks like an enormous present wrapped in gold Christmas paper) but the view over the city from the rooftop is fabulous.

The Guardian - Travel

So perhaps it isn't the most enormous surprise to find Simon's format still providing some sort of template for the ruling elite.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

She gestured to a flower-seller with long, braided hair and the traditional huipil (embroidered blouse) and voluminous skirts of the Juchiteca – but the hands wrapping dripping stems of tuberoses and hibiscus were enormous and hairy, and there was a prominent Adam's apple poking out above the neckline of the blouse.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "enormous" to emphasize a scale or degree significantly beyond the ordinary. For example, "The project required an enormous amount of effort."

Common error

While "enormous" is acceptable in many contexts, overuse can make your writing sound stilted. In informal settings, consider more relatable alternatives like "huge" or "massive".

Linguistic Context

The word "enormous" functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate that they are exceptionally large in size, degree, or extent. According to Ludwig AI, the word is correct and usable in written English. Ludwig provides numerous examples of the word in real world contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "enormous" functions as an adjective to denote something exceptionally large or significant. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and widely used term in written English. Its purpose is to emphasize magnitude, and it maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. The adjective is frequently found in News & Media. Alternatives such as "huge", "massive", and "immense" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

very large

Emphasizes the scale or magnitude.

extremely big

Highlights the extent of the size.

considerable size

Focuses on the significant proportions.

immense proportions

Stresses the vastness of the dimensions.

vast quantity

Draws attention to the great amount.

substantial amount

Indicates a notable quantity or degree.

appreciable magnitude

Highlights the noticeable scale.

extensive scale

Points out the broad reach or scope.

remarkable size

Underscores the exceptional dimensions.

tremendous extent

Focuses on the great reach or degree.

FAQs

How can I use "enormous" in a sentence?

"Enormous" is an adjective used to describe something exceptionally large. For example, "The stadium has an enormous seating capacity."

What are some alternatives to "enormous"?

You can use alternatives like "huge", "massive", or "immense" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "enormous size" or is it redundant?

While not strictly incorrect, "enormous size" can be redundant. Using just "enormous" often suffices, as it already implies size. However, in specific contexts, the emphasis might be warranted.

What's the difference between "enormous" and "tremendous"?

"Enormous" primarily emphasizes size or quantity, while "tremendous" can also convey a sense of excellence or impact. For example, you might say "enormous effort" or "tremendous success".