outsize role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outsize role" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a role or influence that is larger or more significant than what is typical or expected. Example: "The CEO played an outsize role in shaping the company's vision and strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

[A1.] Manufacturing has historically played an outsize role in economic rebounds, with big growth in autos.

The New York Times

Education plays an outsize role in Chinese families' decisions to buy American real estate.

The New York Times

Yet some Democrats and political analysts see downsides in Mr. Clinton's outsize role.

The New York Times

Real estate plays an outsize role in most New York stories.

The New Yorker

And status and wealth still play an outsize role in our supposedly classless society.

The New York Times

The Catholic Church often plays an outsize role in the political debate over abortion and marriage.

The New York Times

Yes, the federal government plays an outsize role in our daily lives.

The New York Times

Instead, investors and Americans willing to pay cash are playing an outsize role in sales.

The New York Times

While stocks performed well over all, a small group of listings played an outsize role.

The New York Times

The bill's fate has taken on an outsize role in the Democratic primary.

The New York Times

The bay's turbulent climate has played an outsize role in the region's history.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "outsize role" when you want to emphasize that something has a larger or more significant influence than expected. For example, "Technology plays an "outsize role" in modern education."

Common error

While "outsize role" is a valid phrase, avoid overusing it in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "significant part" or "major influence" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outsize role" functions as a noun phrase modifier, typically used to describe the degree of influence, importance, or prominence something has within a given context. Ludwig examples demonstrate its versatile use across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "outsize role" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that emphasizes the disproportionate importance or influence of something. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts, primarily within news and media. While the phrase is versatile, it's essential to consider synonyms like "significant part" or "major influence" to avoid overuse. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is perfectly acceptable for use and understanding, provided its context is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disproportionate role

Emphasizes the imbalance in the level of influence or significance.

major influence

Underscores the substantial impact or effect.

pivotal element

Highlights the critical or decisive component.

significant part

Focuses on the notable contribution or involvement.

substantial impact

Focuses on the considerable effect or consequence.

key factor

Identifies the essential or crucial element.

central aspect

Pinpoints the core or fundamental element.

dominant force

Emphasizes the prevailing or commanding power.

prominent position

Highlights the elevated or leading status.

considerable weight

Highlights the significant importance or influence.

FAQs

How can I use "outsize role" in a sentence?

You can use "outsize role" to describe something that has a greater importance or influence than expected. For example, "Social media plays an "outsize role" in political campaigns."

What are some alternatives to "outsize role"?

You can use alternatives like "significant part", "major influence", or "disproportionate role" depending on the context.

Is "outsize role" a formal or informal phrase?

"Outsize role" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it's more commonly found in news and analytical writing.

What is the difference between "outsize role" and "oversized role"?

While both phrases suggest something is larger than normal, "outsize role" typically refers to importance or influence, while "oversized role" might refer more literally to physical size or scope. Context is key in determining the appropriate phrase.