Vast Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
vast
[vษหst ]
Definitions
ocean
of very great extent or quantity; immense
Synonyms
boundless, enormous, huge, immense.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| vast |
Used to describe something very large in size, extent, or quantity. It often implies a wide area or a significant amount that can be overwhelming.
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| huge |
Used to describe something very large, both in a literal and figurative sense. It is colloquial and common in everyday speech.
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| enormous |
Used to describe something very large in size or amount, often surprisingly so. It is typically used to emphasize the physical dimensions.
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| immense |
Used to describe something extremely large or great, often in a way that suggests grandeur or impressiveness.
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| boundless |
Used to describe something that has no limits or boundaries, often in a poetic or exaggerated way. It implies endlessness and infinity.
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Examples of usage
- The vast ocean stretched out before us.
- She was overwhelmed by the vastness of the sea.
knowledge
of great importance or significance
Synonyms
considerable, important, significant, substantial.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| vast |
Used to describe something very large in size, amount, or extent. Often used for geographical areas or large collections.
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| significant |
Describes something that has a noticeable impact or importance. Often used in contexts where the implications or changes are measurable or evident.
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| important |
Specifically refers to something having great significance or value in terms of consequences or implications. It does not necessarily relate to size or amount.
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| substantial |
Refers to something of considerable size or worth, often implying solidity and durability. Can be used for both tangible and intangible items.
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| considerable |
Implies a large amount or degree, but less extensive than 'vast.' Often used in formal or business settings.
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Examples of usage
- He possessed a vast amount of knowledge on the subject.
- The issue had vast implications for the future.
space
extending to a great distance; wide
Synonyms
broad, extensive, spacious, wide.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| vast |
Used to describe something immense or seemingly infinite in size. It often implies a sense of awe or overwhelming scale.
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| wide |
Ideal for describing physical width or breadth, but can also be used metaphorically to describe a broad range or diversity.
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| extensive |
Best used when something covers a large area or involves a large amount of information, effort, or resources.
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| spacious |
Commonly used to describe interiors or areas that have plenty of space or are comfortably large.
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| broad |
Appropriate for describing something wide or large in extent, often in a more general sense. It can also refer to general topics or categories.
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Examples of usage
- The vast plains stretched as far as the eye could see.
- She gazed up at the vast expanse of the night sky.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Writers often use 'vast' to convey a sense of wonder or insignificance, emphasizing charactersโ emotions against large backgrounds.
- In poetry, 'vast' can describe endlessness, making readers feel connected to something greater than themselves.
- Classic works, like Melville's 'Moby-Dick', use 'vast' to characterize the ocean, reflecting themes of exploration and the unknown.
Science
- The universe is often described as 'vast', with billions of galaxies spread across unimaginable distances.
- In ecology, vast areas of habitat are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and environmental balance.
- Oceanographers use 'vast' to describe deep-sea environments, emphasizing how these large regions remain largely unexplored.
Cultural References
- In many cultures, the idea of vast landscapes, like deserts or mountains, represent freedom and adventure.
- Music and art often explore the concept of vastness, evoking feelings of isolation or beauty in expansive scenes.
- Movies depicting epic journeys, such as 'The Lord of the Rings', showcase vast landscapes to highlight the characters' challenges.
Philosophy
- Philosophers often discuss the vastness of human thought and the pursuit of knowledge as a journey without limits.
- The concept of a vast universe raises questions about existence and humanityโs place within it, fostering deep contemplation.
- Vastness in philosophy can symbolize freedom of choice and the plethora of possibilities in life.
Origin of 'vast'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'vastus', which means empty or waste, showing how something big can also feel empty.
- In Old French, 'vast' maintained the meaning of being large or expansive, influencing its current usage in English.
- It was first used in English around the 14th century, primarily to describe large spaces or areas.
The word 'vast' originated from the Latin word 'vastus', meaning empty or desolate. Over time, its meaning evolved to represent something of great extent or quantity. The term has been used in English since the late 16th century, with its current definition solidifying in the 17th century.