B1adjective1K

Giant

UK /["/ˈdʒaɪənt/"]/US /["/ˈdʒaɪənt/"]/

Definition

very large; much larger or more important than similar things usually are

In simple words: A very large person or thing.

Examples

  • The match was shown on a **giant screen** outside the town hall.
  • a giant step towards achieving independence
  • a giant squid
  • a giant-size box of tissues
  • That's one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.
  • Giant clams may grow to be a metre long.
  • The market is controlled by giant corporations which function as monopolies.

Usage notes

Use 'giant' to describe something significantly larger than usual. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, but avoid using it in very technical descriptions where precision is needed.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'Giant' like 'Giant's Causeway'—a huge natural formation.

Collocations

  • giant leap
  • giant problem
  • giant creature
  • giant statue
  • giant steps

Synonyms

  • huge
  • enormous
  • colossal
  • gigantic
  • immense

Antonyms

  • small
  • tiny
  • miniature

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'giant' with 'giantess', which specifically refers to a female giant.
  • Using 'giant' to describe something small for humorous effect, which may confuse listeners.
  • Mispronouncing 'giant' as 'gi-ant', breaking it into two syllables.