C1adjectiveinformal2K

Gross

UK /["/ɡrəʊs/"]/US /["/ɡrəʊs/"]/

Definition

being the total amount of something before anything is taken away

In simple words: Disgusting or very unpleasant.

Examples

  • **gross weight** *(= including the container or wrapping)*
  • **gross income/wage** *(= before taxes, etc. are taken away)*
  • Investments showed a **gross profit** of 26 per cent.
  • The family have three children and a gross income of £50 000.
  • **gross negligence/misconduct**
  • a **gross violation** of human rights
  • ‘He ate it with mustard.’ ‘Oh, gross!’
  • gross behaviour

Usage notes

Used to describe something that is very unpleasant or distasteful. Common in casual conversations but may not be suitable for formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Sounds like 'gross' — think of a plate of spoiled food that makes you go 'eww!'

Collocations

  • gross behavior
  • gross taste
  • gross-out humor
  • gross mistake
  • gross profit

Synonyms

  • disgusting
  • crude

Antonyms

  • pleasant
  • nice
  • appealing

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'gross' meaning to earn or total in financial contexts.
  • Using it in overly formal settings where a more polite term is needed.
  • Not using it correctly in phrases like 'It's grossed me out' without familiarity.