C1noun2K

Bulk

UK /["/bʌlk/"]/US /["/bʌlk/"]/

Definition

the main part of something; most of something

In simple words: A large amount or size of something.

Examples

  • The store offers a discount when you buy in bulk.
  • She loves to buy bulk items at the warehouse club.
  • The bulk of the project was completed ahead of schedule.
  • The bulk of the evidence supports his claim.
  • He needs to increase his bulk to compete in weightlifting.
  • She packed her suitcase to bulk it up for the trip.

Usage notes

Use 'bulk' when talking about large quantities, especially in business or shipping contexts. It can sound more formal than simply saying 'a lot'. Avoid using it in casual conversations about small, everyday items.

Grammar pattern

bulk + of + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'bulk' package — it's big and heavy!

Collocations

  • great
  • large
  • overwhelming
  • buying
  • order
  • purchasing
  • in bulk
  • the bulk of
  • considerable
  • huge
  • massive
  • ease
  • heave
  • shift
  • considerable
  • huge
  • massive
  • ease
  • heave
  • shift

Synonyms

  • mass
  • volume
  • size
  • quantity
  • load

Antonyms

  • small
  • minimal
  • little

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'bulk' as a countable noun (it's uncountable).
  • Using 'bulk' inappropriately in casual contexts.
  • Mistaking 'bulk' for 'balk', which means to hesitate.