At the A1 level, the word 'biggest' is used in its most literal and physical sense. Students learn it as part of the 'big, bigger, biggest' sequence. It is used to describe the size of everyday objects like toys, animals, or pieces of fruit. The focus is on simple comparisons within a small, visible group. For example, a teacher might show three balls of different sizes and ask, 'Which one is the biggest?' At this stage, the grammar is kept simple: 'The [noun] is the biggest.' There is no need for complex abstract meanings or difficult sentence structures. The goal is for the student to understand that 'biggest' means 'the most big' in a physical way.
At the A2 level, students begin to use 'biggest' in slightly more varied contexts. While physical size is still the primary focus, they may start to use it for things like cities, buildings, or populations. They also learn the important grammatical construction 'one of the biggest,' which requires a plural noun (e.g., 'one of the biggest cities'). Students at this level should also be aware of the spelling rule: doubling the 'g' to make 'biggest.' They can use the word to talk about their personal lives, such as their 'biggest hobby' or 'biggest friend' (meaning tallest or most important), though the abstract uses are still quite basic.
At the B1 level, the use of 'biggest' expands significantly into abstract territory. Students use it to describe importance, problems, and challenges. Phrases like 'the biggest problem in my life' or 'the biggest advantage of learning English' become common. They can also use 'biggest' to describe quantities and amounts in a more sophisticated way, such as 'the biggest part of the population.' At this stage, students should be comfortable using 'biggest' in both spoken and written English and should rarely make the 'most biggest' error. They are also starting to recognize synonyms like 'largest' and 'greatest' and when one might be more appropriate than the other.
At the B2 level, students use 'biggest' with nuance and for rhetorical effect. They understand how it can be used in marketing and news to create emphasis. They can use modifiers like 'by far the biggest' or 'easily the biggest' to add intensity to their statements. They also begin to understand the difference between 'biggest' (often more informal or physical) and 'largest' (more formal or related to area/volume). In their writing, they can use 'biggest' to structure arguments, such as identifying the 'biggest reason' for a particular phenomenon. They are also familiar with common idioms and phrases that use the word, like 'the biggest fish in the pond.'
At the C1 level, 'biggest' is used with high precision. Students can distinguish between the physical, metaphorical, and idiomatic uses of the word effortlessly. They use it in complex sentence structures and can explain the subtle differences between 'biggest,' 'most significant,' 'paramount,' and 'foremost.' They are aware of the register of the word and might choose a more academic alternative in a formal essay while using 'biggest' for impact in a presentation. They can also analyze how the word is used in literature or media to influence the reader's perception. Their use of the word is natural, accurate, and contextually appropriate.
At the C2 level, a speaker uses 'biggest' with the mastery of a native speaker. They can use it ironically, humorously, or for dramatic understatement. They are fully aware of all the idiomatic expressions and can even play with the word's meaning in creative writing. They understand the historical etymology of the word and how its usage has evolved. At this level, the focus is not on the word itself, but on using it as a tool for sophisticated communication. They can navigate the finest distinctions between 'biggest' and its most obscure synonyms, choosing the exact word that fits the rhythm and tone of their discourse.

biggest 30초 만에

  • Biggest is the superlative form of 'big,' used to identify the single largest item in a group of three or more.
  • It can describe physical size (a biggest house) or abstract importance (a biggest problem or a biggest dream).
  • Grammatically, it almost always follows 'the' and requires doubling the 'g' in its spelling (b-i-g-g-e-s-t).
  • Common synonyms include 'largest' for physical size and 'greatest' for quality or historical significance.

The word biggest is the superlative form of the adjective 'big.' In the English language, we use superlatives to compare three or more things and identify the one that possesses the highest degree of a specific quality. When we say something is the 'biggest,' we are stating that out of all the items in a specific group or category, this particular one has the most significant size, volume, importance, or scale. It is the ultimate point on the spectrum of magnitude. Whether you are talking about the physical dimensions of a skyscraper, the vastness of an ocean, or the metaphorical weight of a life-changing decision, 'biggest' serves as the definitive marker for the maximum level of 'bigness.'

Physical Magnitude
This refers to the actual, measurable size of an object. For example, in a set of three boxes, the one that occupies the most space is the biggest box. This is the most common and literal use of the word, often taught to early language learners to describe animals, buildings, or toys.

The blue whale is the biggest animal to have ever lived on Earth.

Beyond physical dimensions, 'biggest' is frequently employed to describe abstract concepts like importance, impact, or intensity. When a person says they made the 'biggest mistake' of their life, they aren't talking about the physical size of the error, but rather its devastating consequences or the profound regret they feel. Similarly, the 'biggest news' of the day isn't the story with the most words, but the one with the most significant influence on society. This versatility allows the word to transition seamlessly from a toddler's nursery to a high-stakes corporate boardroom.

Abstract Significance
This usage highlights the importance or priority of an event or idea. It ranks things based on their effect or value rather than their physical volume. For instance, 'the biggest challenge' facing a company might be a lack of innovation.

In daily conversation, 'biggest' is a high-frequency word because humans are naturally inclined to categorize and rank their experiences. We want to know who is the biggest star in Hollywood, what is the biggest city in the world, and where we can find the biggest discounts. It helps us organize our understanding of the world by establishing boundaries and peaks. It is a word of superlatives, extremes, and finality. When something is the biggest, there is nothing else in that specific context that exceeds it.

Winning the championship was the biggest moment of his entire athletic career.

Quantity and Amount
We also use 'biggest' to describe the largest amount or portion of something. If you have the biggest share of a pizza, you have more than anyone else at the table. In economics, the biggest contributor to a country's GDP is the sector that generates the most money.

The biggest portion of the budget is allocated to healthcare and education.

Finally, 'biggest' is often used in marketing and advertising to grab attention. Phrases like 'The Biggest Sale of the Year' or 'Our Biggest Screen Ever' are designed to create a sense of excitement and urgency. By using the superlative, brands signal to consumers that they are offering something unprecedented or superior to all previous offers. This psychological trigger works because 'biggest' implies a limit has been reached, making the offer feel exclusive and significant.

Don't miss out on the biggest event of the summer season!

He is the biggest fan of that rock band; he has every single one of their albums.

Using the word biggest correctly requires an understanding of English superlative grammar. Because 'biggest' identifies a unique item at the extreme end of a scale, it is almost always preceded by the definite article 'the.' This structure—'the' + 'biggest' + [noun]—is the standard way to point out the largest member of a group. For example, 'the biggest house on the street' or 'the biggest problem we face.' Without the 'the,' the sentence often feels incomplete or grammatically incorrect in standard English prose.

The + Superlative + Noun
This is the most common pattern. It specifies which noun you are talking about by its size relative to others. Example: 'This is the biggest apple I have ever seen.'

Mount Everest is the biggest mountain in the world when measured from sea level.

Another important pattern is the use of 'one of the biggest.' This is used when there are several things that are extremely large, and you are referring to one of them. In this case, the noun that follows must be plural. This is a common mistake for learners, who might say 'one of the biggest city' instead of the correct 'one of the biggest cities.' This construction acknowledges that while the item is massive, it might not be the absolute number one, or it belongs to an elite group of the largest items.

One of the Biggest + Plural Noun
Used to categorize something within a top-tier group of large items. Example: 'Tokyo is one of the biggest cities on the planet.'

She is considered one of the biggest stars in the film industry today.

'Biggest' can also be used as a predicate adjective, meaning it comes after a linking verb like 'is' or 'was.' In these instances, the noun it describes has usually already been mentioned or is understood from the context. For example, if you are looking at a pile of rocks, you might point to one and say, 'That one is the biggest.' Here, 'biggest' is still identifying the extreme, but the sentence structure is more flexible.

Predicate Usage
The adjective follows the verb to describe the subject. Example: 'Out of all the players, he was the biggest.'

When comparing the two risks, the threat of a cyberattack is definitely the biggest.

In more complex sentences, 'biggest' can be modified by adverbs to provide even more precision. You might hear phrases like 'by far the biggest' or 'easily the biggest.' These modifiers emphasize just how much larger the item is compared to the others. If something is 'by far the biggest,' it means there is no close second; the difference in size is substantial and obvious to everyone.

This is by far the biggest project our team has ever undertaken.

Finally, 'biggest' is often paired with a 'that' clause or an 'ever' phrase to provide a timeframe or scope for the comparison. Phrases like 'the biggest mistake I've ever made' or 'the biggest tree that grows in this forest' help the listener understand the boundaries of the group being compared. This contextualization is vital because 'biggest' is always relative; what is the biggest in one room might be the smallest in another.

That was the biggest surprise that anyone could have planned for me.

The biggest challenge for new students is often managing their time effectively.

The word biggest is ubiquitous in English-speaking environments, appearing in everything from casual kitchen conversations to high-level news broadcasts. One of the most common places you will encounter it is in the news media. Journalists love superlatives because they create drama and highlight the importance of a story. You will hear about the 'biggest political scandal,' the 'biggest economic downturn,' or the 'biggest breakthrough in medical history.' In these contexts, 'biggest' serves as a signal to the audience that the information following it is of the utmost importance and deserves their full attention.

News and Media
Used to emphasize the gravity or scale of current events. It helps prioritize information for the viewer or reader.

Today we are reporting on the biggest storm to hit the coast in over a decade.

In the world of sports, 'biggest' is used constantly to describe the stakes of a game or the physical presence of an athlete. Commentators will talk about the 'biggest game of the season' or the 'biggest upset in tournament history.' Fans might argue over who is the 'biggest legend' in a particular sport. Here, the word conveys a sense of historical significance and emotional weight. It tells the listener that what they are witnessing is not just an ordinary event, but something that stands out from all others.

Sports and Competition
Used to describe the magnitude of a victory, the size of a player, or the importance of a match.

This Sunday features the biggest rivalry in professional football.

In business and marketing, as mentioned before, 'biggest' is a powerful tool for persuasion. You will see it on billboards, in social media ads, and in email subject lines. 'The biggest discount,' 'the biggest selection,' 'the biggest launch.' It is designed to make the consumer feel like they are getting the absolute best deal or the most impressive product available. In a competitive marketplace, being the 'biggest'—whether in terms of market share, variety, or value—is a highly sought-after position.

Business and Marketing
Used to highlight competitive advantages and attract customers through the promise of maximum value or variety.

Our company's biggest asset is our dedicated and hardworking staff.

In everyday life, you'll hear parents telling their children to take the 'biggest bite' of their vegetables, or friends discussing the 'biggest drama' in their social circle. It's used in weather reports ('the biggest snowfall of the year'), in travel guides ('the biggest museum in Europe'), and in personal reflections ('the biggest change I've made'). Its simplicity and power make it a go-to word for anyone wanting to express that something has reached its maximum potential or scale in a given situation.

What is the biggest city you have ever visited during your travels?

The biggest worry for most parents is the safety and well-being of their children.

Even though biggest is a relatively simple word, English learners often make a few recurring mistakes when using it. The most common error is the 'double superlative.' This happens when a speaker uses both 'most' and 'biggest' together, such as saying 'the most biggest.' In English, you either use the '-est' suffix for short words (like big, small, fast) or 'most' for longer words (like beautiful, expensive, interesting). You never use both. Saying 'the most biggest' is redundant and grammatically incorrect.

The Double Superlative
Incorrect: 'This is the most biggest cake.' Correct: 'This is the biggest cake.' Never combine 'most' with an '-est' adjective.

Incorrect: That was the most biggest mistake. Correct: That was the biggest mistake.

Another frequent mistake involves spelling. Many learners forget to double the final consonant 'g' before adding the '-est' suffix. The rule in English is that for one-syllable words ending in a single consonant preceded by a single vowel (CVC), you must double the consonant. Therefore, 'big' becomes 'biggest' with two 'g's. Writing 'bigest' is a common spelling error that can make your writing look unprofessional.

Spelling: The Double 'G'
Incorrect: 'bigest'. Correct: 'biggest'. This follows the standard CVC doubling rule for short adjectives.

A third mistake is confusing the comparative and superlative forms. 'Bigger' is used when comparing exactly two things ('My house is bigger than yours'). 'Biggest' is used when comparing three or more things ('My house is the biggest on the street'). If you are only talking about two items, using 'biggest' is technically incorrect, although it is sometimes heard in very casual speech. To be precise, always count the items in the group before choosing between 'bigger' and 'biggest.'

Comparative vs. Superlative
Use 'bigger' for two items. Use 'biggest' for three or more. Example: 'Of the two, this is bigger.' vs 'Of the three, this is the biggest.'

Incorrect: Of the two brothers, Sam is the biggest. Correct: Of the two brothers, Sam is the bigger.

Finally, some learners forget to use the plural noun after the phrase 'one of the...' As mentioned in the usage section, saying 'one of the biggest city' is a common grammatical slip. Because you are selecting one item from a larger group, that group must be represented by a plural noun. Always check that your noun is plural when you use this specific construction.

Incorrect: It is one of the biggest problem. Correct: It is one of the biggest problems.

The biggest hurdle to success is often a lack of self-confidence.

While biggest is a versatile and common word, there are many synonyms and alternatives that can provide more specific meaning or a different tone to your writing and speech. Choosing the right word depends on whether you are talking about physical size, importance, or volume. For example, 'largest' is the most direct synonym for 'biggest' when referring to physical dimensions. It is slightly more formal and is often preferred in scientific or academic contexts.

Largest vs. Biggest
'Largest' often implies area or volume (e.g., the largest country). 'Biggest' is more general and can imply weight or bulk as well. They are often interchangeable, but 'largest' sounds more professional.

Russia is the largest country in the world by land area.

When you want to emphasize importance or quality rather than physical size, 'greatest' is an excellent alternative. While you could say someone is the 'biggest athlete,' saying they are the 'greatest athlete' implies they have the highest skill level or have achieved the most success. 'Greatest' carries a connotation of excellence and historical impact that 'biggest' lacks. Similarly, 'most significant' is a better choice when discussing the impact of an event or a discovery.

Greatest vs. Biggest
'Greatest' focuses on quality, skill, or historical importance. 'Biggest' focuses on scale or magnitude. You might have the biggest house, but the greatest home.

Many people believe that Michael Jordan is the greatest basketball player of all time.

For very informal or slang contexts, you might use words like 'humongous' or 'ginormous' (a blend of giant and enormous). These words are playful and emphasize extreme size in a way that 'biggest' does not. On the other hand, in formal or technical writing, you might use 'maximum' or 'most substantial.' If you are talking about the 'biggest part' of something, 'majority' or 'bulk' might be more precise alternatives.

Massive vs. Biggest
'Massive' implies great weight and solidity. 'Biggest' is just about the comparison of size. A mountain is massive; a balloon can be the biggest in the room without being massive.

The massive stone walls of the castle have stood for centuries.

Understanding these nuances allows you to be more descriptive and accurate. While 'biggest' is a safe and effective word to use in almost any situation, expanding your vocabulary to include these alternatives will help you express yourself with more variety and sophistication. Whether you are describing a 'colossal' failure, a 'substantial' increase, or the 'utmost' importance, having a range of synonyms at your disposal is a key part of mastering the English language.

The most significant factor in their success was their ability to adapt to change.

He made a humongous sandwich with five different types of meat.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

In the 14th century, 'big' was often used to describe a person who was physically strong or brave in battle. It only later shifted to describe physical size in general.

발음 가이드

UK /ˈbɪɡ.ɪst/
US /ˈbɪɡ.əst/
The stress is on the first syllable: BIG-gest.
라임이 맞는 단어
diggest figgest piggest wiggest jiggest riggest biggest (self-rhyme) quickest (near rhyme)
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing it as 'big-est' with a long 'e' sound in the second syllable.
  • Forgetting to double the 'g' in writing, though this is a spelling error.
  • Adding an extra syllable like 'big-ge-est'.
  • Failing to stress the first syllable.
  • Mumbling the final 'st' sound.

난이도

독해 1/5

Very easy to recognize in text as a superlative.

쓰기 2/5

Requires remembering the double 'g' spelling rule.

말하기 1/5

Simple pronunciation and high frequency make it easy to use.

듣기 1/5

Easily understood in various accents.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

big bigger large small the

다음에 배울 것

largest greatest smallest most significant

고급

colossal immense paramount substantial gargantuan

알아야 할 문법

Superlative Formation

For short adjectives like 'big', add '-est'. For 'big', double the 'g' to get 'biggest'.

Definite Article with Superlatives

Always use 'the' before 'biggest' when it modifies a noun: 'the biggest tree'.

One of the... Pattern

Use a plural noun after 'one of the biggest': 'one of the biggest cities'.

Comparison of Three or More

Use 'biggest' only when comparing three or more items. Use 'bigger' for two.

CVC Spelling Rule

Words ending in Consonant-Vowel-Consonant double the last letter: big -> biggest.

수준별 예문

1

This is the biggest apple in the bag.

C'est la plus grosse pomme du sac.

Superlative form of 'big'.

2

The elephant is the biggest animal here.

L'éléphant est le plus gros animal ici.

Used with 'the' before the adjective.

3

I want the biggest piece of cake.

Je veux la plus grosse part de gâteau.

Identifying the maximum size.

4

My dad has the biggest car.

Mon père a la plus grosse voiture.

Comparing family possessions.

5

Which box is the biggest?

Quelle boîte est la plus grande ?

Question form with 'which'.

6

The blue house is the biggest.

La maison bleue est la plus grande.

Predicate adjective use.

7

He has the biggest smile.

Il a le plus grand sourire.

Describing a physical feature.

8

Look at the biggest star in the sky!

Regarde la plus grosse étoile dans le ciel !

Used for visible comparison.

1

Tokyo is the biggest city in Japan.

Tokyo est la plus grande ville du Japon.

Geographical superlative.

2

This is one of the biggest malls in the world.

C'est l'un des plus grands centres commerciaux au monde.

One of the + biggest + plural noun.

3

What is your biggest dream?

Quel est ton plus grand rêve ?

Abstract use for importance.

4

He is the biggest boy in my class.

C'est le plus grand garçon de ma classe.

Comparing people in a group.

5

The biggest problem is the weather.

Le plus gros problème, c'est la météo.

Abstract use for a challenge.

6

We saw the biggest tree in the park.

Nous avons vu le plus grand arbre du parc.

Specific physical comparison.

7

This is the biggest sale of the year.

C'est la plus grande promotion de l'année.

Marketing context.

8

She has the biggest collection of dolls.

Elle a la plus grande collection de poupées.

Comparing quantities.

1

The biggest challenge for me is speaking English fluently.

Le plus grand défi pour moi est de parler anglais couramment.

Abstract noun 'challenge'.

2

What is the biggest difference between these two cultures?

Quelle est la plus grande différence entre ces deux cultures ?

Comparing abstract concepts.

3

The biggest part of my day is spent at work.

La plus grande partie de ma journée se passe au travail.

Describing a portion of time.

4

He made the biggest mistake of his life.

Il a fait la plus grande erreur de sa vie.

Emphasizing significance of an action.

5

The biggest advantage of this car is its fuel efficiency.

Le plus grand avantage de cette voiture est sa faible consommation de carburant.

Identifying a primary benefit.

6

Who is the biggest influence on your career?

Qui a la plus grande influence sur votre carrière ?

Abstract use for impact.

7

The biggest reason I moved here was the job market.

La raison principale pour laquelle j'ai déménagé ici était le marché du travail.

Identifying the primary cause.

8

This is the biggest project I have ever managed.

C'est le plus gros projet que j'aie jamais géré.

Comparing professional experiences.

1

The biggest hurdle to the new law is public opinion.

Le plus grand obstacle à la nouvelle loi est l'opinion publique.

Metaphorical use of 'hurdle'.

2

It was by far the biggest upset in the history of the tournament.

C'était de loin la plus grande surprise de l'histoire du tournoi.

Modified by 'by far'.

3

The biggest threat to the environment is climate change.

La plus grande menace pour l'environnement est le changement climatique.

Abstract use for a serious danger.

4

She is easily the biggest talent of her generation.

Elle est sans conteste le plus grand talent de sa génération.

Modified by 'easily'.

5

The biggest drawback of living in a city is the noise.

Le plus grand inconvénient de vivre en ville est le bruit.

Identifying a primary disadvantage.

6

This is the biggest investment our company has made.

C'est le plus gros investissement que notre entreprise ait réalisé.

Financial context.

7

The biggest takeaway from the meeting was the need for better communication.

La conclusion la plus importante de la réunion était la nécessité d'une meilleure communication.

Business idiom 'takeaway'.

8

He is one of the biggest names in modern architecture.

C'est l'un des plus grands noms de l'architecture moderne.

Idiomatic use of 'names' for famous people.

1

The biggest challenge facing humanity today is sustainable development.

Le plus grand défi auquel l'humanité est confrontée aujourd'hui est le développement durable.

Formal, global context.

2

Perhaps the biggest irony of the situation was his unexpected success.

Peut-être que la plus grande ironie de la situation était son succès inattendu.

Abstract use with 'irony'.

3

The biggest contributor to the study's findings was the longitudinal data.

Le plus grand contributeur aux conclusions de l'étude était les données longitudinales.

Academic/Scientific context.

4

The biggest misconception about the project is its cost.

L'idée fausse la plus répandue sur le projet est son coût.

Abstract use with 'misconception'.

5

This represents the biggest shift in policy since the 1990s.

Cela représente le plus grand changement de politique depuis les années 1990.

Historical/Political context.

6

The biggest factor in their decision was the potential for growth.

Le facteur le plus important dans leur décision était le potentiel de croissance.

Identifying a primary variable.

7

It remains the biggest mystery in the field of archaeology.

Cela reste le plus grand mystère dans le domaine de l'archéologie.

Describing an unsolved problem.

8

The biggest concern for the board is the long-term viability of the firm.

La plus grande préoccupation du conseil d'administration est la viabilité à long terme de l'entreprise.

Formal business context.

1

The biggest pitfall for any artist is the fear of being misunderstood.

Le plus grand piège pour tout artiste est la peur d'être mal compris.

Philosophical/Abstract use.

2

In the biggest gamble of his career, he sold everything to start the company.

Dans le plus grand pari de sa carrière, il a tout vendu pour créer l'entreprise.

Metaphorical use of 'gamble'.

3

The biggest revelation of the biography was the author's hidden struggle.

La plus grande révélation de la biographie était la lutte cachée de l'auteur.

Literary context.

4

It was the biggest travesty of justice the town had ever seen.

C'était la plus grande parodie de justice que la ville ait jamais connue.

Strong rhetorical use.

5

The biggest hurdle, and arguably the most daunting, is the lack of infrastructure.

Le plus grand obstacle, et sans doute le plus décourageant, est le manque d'infrastructures.

Complex sentence structure with parenthetical.

6

His biggest asset was not his wealth, but his unwavering integrity.

Son plus grand atout n'était pas sa richesse, mais son intégrité inébranlable.

Contrastive use of 'asset'.

7

The biggest takeaway from the era was the resilience of the human spirit.

La plus grande leçon de cette époque a été la résilience de l'esprit humain.

Philosophical reflection.

8

The biggest challenge to the theory is the lack of empirical evidence.

Le plus grand défi à la théorie est le manque de preuves empiriques.

Scientific/Academic rigor.

자주 쓰는 조합

the biggest challenge
the biggest problem
the biggest difference
the biggest mistake
the biggest surprise
the biggest advantage
the biggest city
the biggest star
the biggest part
the biggest fan

자주 쓰는 구문

the biggest thing since sliced bread

— Used to describe a new invention or idea that is considered very good or important.

People think this new app is the biggest thing since sliced bread.

the biggest fish in the pond

— The most important or powerful person in a small group or organization.

He was the biggest fish in the pond at his old company.

one of the biggest

— Used to place something in a top-tier group of large or important things.

This is one of the biggest challenges we've faced.

by far the biggest

— Used to emphasize that something is much larger than anything else.

This is by far the biggest cake I've ever seen.

the biggest bang for your buck

— Getting the most value for the money you spend.

This computer gives you the biggest bang for your buck.

the biggest loser

— The person who loses the most, often used in the context of weight loss or competitions.

He was the biggest loser in the poker game last night.

the biggest name in...

— The most famous or influential person in a specific field.

He is the biggest name in jazz music today.

the biggest hurdle

— The most significant obstacle to achieving a goal.

The biggest hurdle to the project is getting approval.

the biggest deal

— Something that is very important or significant.

It's not the biggest deal if we are a few minutes late.

the biggest of all

— Emphasizing that something is the largest out of every possible option.

Of all the mountains, this one is the biggest of all.

자주 혼동되는 단어

biggest vs bigger

Used for comparing two things, while 'biggest' is for three or more.

biggest vs largest

Very similar, but 'largest' is more formal and often refers to area/volume.

biggest vs greatest

Refers to quality or importance rather than physical size.

관용어 및 표현

"the biggest elephant in the room"

— A major problem or controversial issue that is present but everyone is ignoring.

The budget deficit was the biggest elephant in the room during the meeting.

Informal/Business
"the biggest head"

— To be very conceited or arrogant (often 'to have the biggest head').

Since he won the award, he's had the biggest head.

Informal
"the biggest mouth"

— To talk too much or reveal secrets.

Don't tell her; she has the biggest mouth in the office.

Informal
"the biggest heart"

— To be extremely kind and generous.

She has the biggest heart and is always helping others.

Neutral
"the biggest joke"

— Something that is considered ridiculous or not to be taken seriously.

The new security system is the biggest joke I've ever seen.

Informal
"the biggest catch"

— A very desirable person to be in a relationship with, or a great achievement.

Everyone thinks he's the biggest catch in town.

Informal
"the biggest splash"

— To get a lot of attention or have a major impact.

Their new product made the biggest splash at the trade show.

Informal
"the biggest gun"

— The most powerful or influential person in a group.

They brought in the biggest guns from the legal department.

Informal/Business
"the biggest loser"

— Used ironically to describe someone who has failed spectacularly.

In the end, the biggest loser was the company's reputation.

Neutral
"the biggest winner"

— The person or entity that benefits the most from a situation.

The consumers were the biggest winners after the price war.

Neutral

혼동하기 쉬운

biggest vs largest

They mean almost the same thing.

'Largest' is often used for land area, population, or formal reports. 'Biggest' is more common in daily speech and can imply weight or bulk.

The largest state is Alaska, but the biggest problem is the cold.

biggest vs greatest

Both imply being 'number one'.

'Greatest' usually refers to skill, quality, or historical importance. 'Biggest' refers to scale or magnitude.

He is the greatest singer, but he has the biggest ego.

biggest vs most

Both are superlatives.

'Most' is used for long adjectives (most beautiful), while 'biggest' is the superlative of 'big'.

She is the most talented, but he is the biggest star.

biggest vs maximum

Both refer to the highest point.

'Maximum' is a technical or mathematical term for the highest possible amount. 'Biggest' is a descriptive adjective.

The maximum speed is 60, but the biggest car is slow.

biggest vs major

Both imply importance.

'Major' means important or large, but it isn't a superlative. 'Biggest' is the absolute top of the scale.

This is a major issue, but that is our biggest problem.

문장 패턴

A1

The [noun] is the biggest.

The elephant is the biggest.

A2

This is the biggest [noun] in the [place].

This is the biggest park in the city.

A2

One of the biggest [plural noun].

One of the biggest problems is time.

B1

The biggest [abstract noun] is [noun/phrase].

The biggest challenge is learning the rules.

B1

What is the biggest [noun]?

What is the biggest difference?

B2

By far the biggest [noun].

It was by far the biggest win.

C1

The biggest [noun] facing [group] is [noun].

The biggest issue facing the team is communication.

C2

In the biggest [noun] of [possessive] career...

In the biggest gamble of his career, he left the firm.

어휘 가족

명사

bigness (the quality of being big)

동사

None (big is not typically used as a verb)

형용사

big (base form)
bigger (comparative form)
biggest (superlative form)

관련

large
great
grand
major
maximum

사용법

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written English.

자주 하는 실수
  • the most biggest the biggest

    You cannot use 'most' with an adjective that already has the '-est' suffix. It is redundant.

  • bigest biggest

    You must double the 'g' because 'big' is a short vowel word ending in a single consonant.

  • one of the biggest city one of the biggest cities

    The phrase 'one of the...' must be followed by a plural noun because you are choosing one from many.

  • Of the two, this is the biggest. Of the two, this is the bigger.

    Use the comparative 'bigger' for two items and the superlative 'biggest' for three or more.

  • a biggest problem the biggest problem

    Superlatives usually require the definite article 'the' because they refer to a unique extreme.

The Double G Rule

Always remember to double the 'g' when writing 'biggest'. It follows the CVC rule: Consonant (b) - Vowel (i) - Consonant (g). When you add a suffix starting with a vowel, double the last letter.

Compare 3+

Only use 'biggest' when you have a group of three or more. If you only have two things, use 'bigger'. This is a common test question!

Abstract Meanings

Don't just use 'biggest' for size. Use it for 'the biggest problem,' 'the biggest surprise,' or 'the biggest secret' to sound more natural in English.

Avoid Redundancy

Never say 'most biggest'. It’s a double superlative and sounds incorrect to native speakers. Stick to just 'biggest'.

Geography Matters

When talking about countries or cities, 'largest' is often used for area, while 'biggest' is used for population or general scale. Both are usually okay, but 'largest' is more formal.

The Power of Superlatives

Notice how ads use 'biggest'. It’s meant to create excitement. When you use it, you are making a strong claim, so make sure it's true!

Stress the Start

The stress is on the 'BIG'. Say it loudly and clearly: BIG-gest. The 'gest' part should be much quieter and faster.

Elephant in the Room

Learn the idiom 'the biggest elephant in the room'. It’s a very common way to describe a problem that everyone is ignoring.

Vary Your Words

If you use 'biggest' in one sentence, try 'largest' or 'most significant' in the next to make your writing more interesting.

Compliments

Saying someone has 'the biggest heart' is a wonderful compliment. It means they are very kind. It's a great phrase to use with friends.

암기하기

기억법

Think of a **BIG** **G**iant **G**etting the **EST** (best) prize. The two 'G's are for the giant, and 'est' is for the best!

시각적 연상

Imagine three boxes. The first is small, the second is medium, and the third is a giant box that fills the whole room. Label the giant box 'BIGGEST'.

Word Web

Size Importance Scale The Double G Superlative Comparison Maximum

챌린지

Look around your room right now. Find three objects of the same type (like three books or three pens) and point to the one that is the biggest. Say out loud: 'This is the biggest [object].'

어원

The word 'biggest' comes from the Middle English 'bigge,' which meant strong or powerful. Its exact origins before Middle English are debated, but it may have Scandinavian roots (Old Norse 'byggligr' meaning 'built' or 'stout').

원래 의미: Originally, 'big' meant strong, stout, or powerful rather than just large in size.

Germanic family, related to words in North Germanic languages.

문화적 맥락

Be careful when using 'biggest' to describe people's physical size, as it can sometimes be perceived as insensitive or a comment on weight. 'Tallest' or 'largest' might be safer depending on the context.

In the US and UK, 'biggest' is frequently used in marketing to imply superiority. 'Biggest' is also a common way to describe siblings (e.g., 'my big brother' vs 'the biggest brother').

'The Biggest Loser' (TV Show) 'The Biggest Little Circus' (Common trope) 'The Biggest Story' (Book title)

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Geography

  • the biggest country
  • the biggest ocean
  • the biggest mountain
  • the biggest desert

Shopping

  • the biggest discount
  • the biggest store
  • the biggest sale
  • the biggest size

Problems

  • the biggest issue
  • the biggest hurdle
  • the biggest worry
  • the biggest mistake

People

  • the biggest fan
  • the biggest star
  • the biggest name
  • the biggest influence

Time

  • the biggest event of the year
  • the biggest moment
  • the biggest change
  • the biggest part of the day

대화 시작하기

"What is the biggest city you have ever visited in your life?"

"In your opinion, what is the biggest problem facing the world today?"

"Who has been the biggest influence on your life so far?"

"What was the biggest surprise you ever received on your birthday?"

"What is the biggest goal you want to achieve in the next five years?"

일기 주제

Describe the biggest challenge you have ever overcome and how you did it.

If you could have the biggest collection of anything in the world, what would it be?

Reflect on the biggest change you have seen in your hometown over the last decade.

Write about the biggest mistake you made and what you learned from it.

What do you think is the biggest advantage of being able to speak multiple languages?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

It is always spelled 'biggest' with two 'g's. This is because 'big' is a one-syllable word that ends in a consonant-vowel-consonant (CVC) pattern, which requires doubling the final consonant before adding '-est'.

No, 'the most biggest' is grammatically incorrect. You should only use 'the biggest'. In English, you use either the '-est' suffix or the word 'most', but never both at the same time for the same adjective.

Use 'bigger' when you are comparing only two things (e.g., 'This apple is bigger than that one'). Use 'biggest' when you are comparing three or more things (e.g., 'This is the biggest apple in the whole basket').

Yes, 'biggest' is generally considered slightly more informal and is very common in spoken English. 'Largest' is often preferred in formal writing, scientific reports, or when discussing geographical areas.

Yes, but be careful. It can mean the tallest or most muscular, but it can also be a comment on someone's weight. In a professional or polite context, 'tallest' or 'most influential' might be better depending on what you mean.

It means the person who likes a celebrity, team, or hobby more than anyone else. It doesn't refer to the person's physical size, but rather the intensity of their interest.

Almost always. Because 'biggest' identifies a unique item at the extreme end of a scale, 'the' is required to specify that unique item. For example, 'the biggest house' or 'the biggest mistake'.

Yes, very often. In phrases like 'the biggest challenge' or 'the biggest news,' it refers to the significance or impact of the subject rather than its physical dimensions.

The direct opposite is 'smallest.' Other opposites depending on context include 'tiniest,' 'least significant,' or 'minor.'

Use this phrase when an item is part of a group of very large things. Remember to always use a plural noun after it: 'He is one of the biggest stars' (not 'star').

셀프 테스트 200 질문

writing

Write a sentence comparing three different animals using the word 'biggest'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about your 'biggest dream'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use the phrase 'one of the biggest' in a sentence about a city.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe the 'biggest challenge' you have faced this year.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using 'biggest' to describe a mistake.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'by far the biggest' in a sentence about a sports team.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using 'biggest' in a marketing context.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Explain the 'biggest difference' between two hobbies you have.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'biggest' to describe a person's influence on you.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about the 'biggest problem' in your neighborhood.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'biggest' to describe a physical object in your room.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using the idiom 'biggest heart'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe the 'biggest surprise' you've ever had.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'biggest' to describe a news event.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about the 'biggest advantage' of your job.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'biggest' to compare three movies you've seen.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about the 'biggest hurdle' to learning English.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'biggest' to describe a historical event.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about the 'biggest star' in your country.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'biggest' to describe a portion of something.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronounce 'biggest' clearly, stressing the first syllable.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Tell me about the biggest city you have ever been to.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest problem in your city?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Who is the biggest influence in your life?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest dream you have for the future?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Describe the biggest mistake you ever made at work.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest advantage of living in your country?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Which is the biggest: the sun, the moon, or the earth?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest challenge of learning English for you?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Tell me about the biggest surprise you've ever had.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest animal you've seen in real life?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest difference between your culture and English culture?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest news in your country right now?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Who is the biggest star in your favorite sport?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest room in your house?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest hurdle to achieving your goals?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest portion of your monthly expenses?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest thing you have ever built?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest worry you have right now?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

What is the biggest change you've made in your life?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the word: 'The biggest elephant is over there.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify the superlative: 'It was the biggest mistake of the year.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and complete: 'Tokyo is the _______ city in Japan.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and complete: 'The _______ challenge is the cost.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and complete: 'He is one of the _______ names in music.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the sentence: 'This is the biggest house.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and complete: 'The _______ difference is the size.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and complete: 'It was by far the _______ surprise.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and complete: 'The _______ part of the day is over.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and complete: 'She has the _______ heart.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify the noun: 'The biggest problem is time.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and complete: 'The _______ sale starts tomorrow.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and complete: 'The _______ hurdle is fear.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and complete: 'The _______ tree is very old.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and complete: 'He is the _______ fan.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

관련 콘텐츠

Other 관련 단어

abate

C1

폭풍은 새벽녘에 누그러지기 시작했다.

abcarndom

C1

엔지니어는 숨겨진 버그를 찾기 위해 테스트 시퀀스를 abcarndom하기로 결정했습니다.

abcenthood

C1

부재 상태, 특히 당신의 존재가 예상되거나 중요할 때. (The state of being absent, especially when your presence is expected or important.) 그의 오랜 부재는 팀에 영향을 미쳤다. (His long absence affected the team.)

abcitless

C1

완전하거나 논리적으로 만들기 위한 기본적이고 필수적인 부분이 누락된 것을 설명합니다. (Describes something missing a basic, necessary part that makes something complete or logical.)

abcognacy

C1

특정 주제, 특히 전문적이거나 학문적인 맥락에서 알지 못하거나 인식하지 못하는 상태. 연구자들은 기후 변화에 대한 사회의 역사적인 'abcognacy'에 대해 논의했습니다.

abdocion

C1

중심축이나 확립된 표준에서 멀어지는 움직임이나 힘을 설명합니다.

abdocly

C1

구석진 곳에 숨겨져 있거나 관찰자에게 즉시 보이지 않는 숨겨진 방식으로 발생하는 것을 설명합니다. 주로 기술적 또는 학술적 맥락에서 더 큰 시스템 내에 숨겨진 구조적 요소나 생물학적 과정을 나타내는 데 사용됩니다.

aberration

B2

탈선 또는 일탈은 정상적이거나 일반적인 것에서 벗어난 것을 의미합니다.

abfacible

C1

고고학자들은 유적을 발굴하면서 흙과 잔해의 표면층을 <strong>체계적으로 제거</strong>하여(abfacible) 그 아래의 고대 구조물을 드러냅니다.

abfactency

C1

'abfactency'는 경험적 사실이나 객관적 현실로부터 근본적으로 단절된 특성이나 상태를 설명합니다.

도움이 되었나요?
아직 댓글이 없습니다. 첫 번째로 생각을 공유하세요!