Greatness: meaning, definitions and examples

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greatness

[ˈɡreɪtnəs ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

achieving success

The quality of being great, distinguished, or eminent. Greatness can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and perseverance. It is often recognized and admired by others for outstanding achievements.

Synonyms

distinction, eminence, excellence, superiority.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
greatness	Used to describe someone or something that is very important, famous, or successful. The team's greatness is celebrated worldwide. He achieved greatness through hard work and dedication.
excellence	Generally used to describe the quality of being exceptionally good in a particular field or activity. The school is known for its academic excellence. He was awarded for his excellence in sports.
distinction	Often used in academic or professional contexts to highlight someone's outstanding achievements or qualities. She graduated with distinction. He earned the distinction of being the top student in his class.
eminence	Typically used to refer to someone who is highly respected and influential in their field. It's more formal and can imply a sense of reverence. The eminence of the scientist was recognized at the conference. She is an eminence in the field of medicine.
superiority	Used to indicate a sense of being better than others, often in a competitive or hierarchical situation. It can have a negative connotation if it implies arrogance. Their superiority in technology gave them an edge in the market. She often behaved with an air of superiority, which annoyed her colleagues.

Examples of usage

His greatness as a leader was evident in the way he inspired his team to reach new heights.
She achieved greatness in the field of science through her groundbreaking research.
The company's greatness was attributed to its innovative approach to business.
Greatness is not measured by wealth or fame, but by the impact one has on others.
Many strive for greatness, but only a few truly attain it.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'greatness' comes from the Old English 'groot' meaning large or big, and is rooted in the Proto-Germanic 'grautaz.'
In the 14th century, 'greatness' began to be used to describe not just size, but also moral or intellectual superiority.

History

Many leaders throughout history, such as Alexander the Great, are remembered for their greatness in strategy and conquest.
Greatness has often been associated with significant cultural or scientific achievements, like Michelangelo’s contributions to art and the Renaissance.

Philosophy

Philosophers like Aristotle discussed greatness in terms of virtue, suggesting that it’s tied to moral excellence and the pursuit of a good life.
The concept of greatness can vary depending on cultural values; what one society views as great, another might not.

Pop Culture

In modern media, figures like Oprah Winfrey and Nelson Mandela are celebrated for their achievements and impact, embodying the idea of greatness.
Movies like 'The Pursuit of Happyness' highlight personal greatness through perseverance and determination.

Psychology

Research shows that individuals who strive for greatness often exhibit a growth mindset, believing their abilities can improve with effort.
Feelings of greatness can boost self-esteem and motivate people to set higher goals for themselves.

Translations

Translations of the word "greatness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 grandeza

🇮🇳 महानता

🇩🇪 Größe

🇮🇩 kebesaran

🇺🇦 велич

🇵🇱 wielkość

🇯🇵 偉大さ

🇫🇷 grandeur

🇪🇸 grandeza

🇹🇷 büyüklük

🇰🇷 위대함

🇸🇦 عظمة

🇨🇿 velikost

🇸🇰 veľkosť

🇨🇳 伟大

🇸🇮 veličina

🇮🇸 stórfengleiki

🇰🇿 ұлылық

🇬🇪 დიდებულება

🇦🇿 böyüklük

🇲🇽 grandeza

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,299 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
7296 dared
7297 exposition
7298 locomotive
7299 greatness
7300 excavation
7301 pathology
7302 symptom
...