Largish Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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largish

[หˆlษ‘rษกษชสƒ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

size descriptor

The term 'largish' is an informal adjective used to describe something that is somewhat large, but not necessarily huge. It suggests a size that is larger than average but does not reach the status of being significantly oversized. This word is often used to give a vague sense of size without the precision of a more exact term. It may be applied to a variety of nouns, including objects, spaces, or even quantities. In conversation, it provides a sense of approximation rather than exactness.

Synonyms

biggish, fairly large, moderately large.

Examples of usage

  • He lives in a largish apartment.
  • She bought a largish dog breed.
  • The largish crowd gathered for the event.
  • I need a largish box to fit all the items.
  • There are a few largish buildings in the area.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Language Variations

  • 'Largish' can be considered informal and is more frequently used in conversational settings rather than formal writing.
  • Synonyms include 'somewhat large' or 'fairly big', which convey a similar meaning but may not be as playful.
  • The term can sometimes imply a touch of ambiguity, as it doesnโ€™t specify the exact size, making it useful for vague descriptions.

Cultural References

  • In popular culture, characters often use 'largish' to humorously describe something that is bigger than expected, like an oversized dessert.
  • 'Largish' appears in literature and film when context requires a more relaxed interpretation of size, enhancing character dialogue.
  • Itโ€™s often used in travel writing to describe accommodations or attractions that are bigger than average but not quite gigantic.

Psychology

  • The use of terms like 'largish' can influence perception, leading listeners to imagine something bigger or more significant than it might be.
  • Studies show that vague descriptors in language can lead to varied interpretations based on individual experiences and biases.
  • Using approximations like 'largish' can help in discussions where exact measurements aren't necessary, promoting open-ended conversations.

Usage in Media

  • The term appeared in various articles and reviews, often to describe food portions, like 'a largish serving of pasta'.
  • In sports commentary, 'largish' is sometimes used to describe teams or players that perform above average, adding a casual tone to discussions.
  • Social media influencers might use 'largish' when showing lifestyle content to imply a comfortable, laid-back lifestyle.

Origin of 'largish'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'largish' combines 'large' with the suffix '-ish', which often indicates a degree or approximation.
  • The usage of '-ish' as a suffix dates back to Old English and was commonly used in English dialects.
  • It entered mainstream usage around the late 19th century, becoming a part of colloquial English.

The word 'largish' has roots in the late Middle English period, originating from the word 'large', which itself comes from the Old French 'large', meaning 'wide' or 'big'. The suffix '-ish' is used to form adjectives that indicate a degree or approximation. In the case of 'largish', it conveys a sense of something being close to large but not definitively so. This combination reflects the English language's tendency to create nuanced descriptors that allow speakers to express varying degrees of size or quality. Throughout its use, 'largish' has retained a somewhat informal tone, often appearing in spoken language more than in formal writing.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,808, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.