greater - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
greater Word Meanings
- of an extent, amount, or intensity considerably above the normal or average
- of high quality or importance
- impressive or excellent
greater Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
greater Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/greɪt/
US
/ɡreɪt/
greater Word Etymology
Great comes from the Old English "graet" meaning large or big. The root decomposes into "grea" (meaning full or large). Imagine a gigantic tree that provides shade to everything around it, symbolizing greatness.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
First I push the door open a crack and then turn the knob wider, watching the space move from dim to bright. I adjust my pace as the light shifts and the room feels more alive, and I hold steady to keep the rhythm. The effort makes the moment feel bigger, like the scene is about to change its mood from ordinary to great. By the time I step through, the whole moment sits solid and clear, and I know it’s great because I earned it with a simple push.
Real Context
Great describes something that is far above the normal level in extent, amount, or intensity, and also denotes high quality or importance, or something impressive or excellent. It is versatile and common in everyday speech as well as in writing. You can use it before nouns (a great idea), before adjectives (great big), or to modify whole clauses (That was a great win). Learners should note that great can be informal and friendly, but in many situations it remains perfectly acceptable in semi-formal contexts; for formal writing, you might opt for excellent or outstanding. The Old English graet originally meant large or big, reinforcing the image of breadth or power.
Usage Reminders
- Notice the context before using great
- Use great for positive quality, not always for perfection
- Pair with nouns and adjectives (a great idea, a great big city)
- Be mindful of formality: great is friendly but common in formal speech
- Avoid overusing it; reserve for emphasis and genuine praise
Common Misconceptions
- Only describes physical size, not quality
- Only used for people, not things
- Always formal; actually common in informal speech
- Cannot describe success or performance
- Confused with 'greatly' (adverb) rather than adjective
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: Great is highly versatile and common in everyday praise, but learners sometimes over-sentimentalize it or misuse it when they want stronger synonyms like excellent or superb.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations with great (great idea, great time, great job)
- Compare with synonyms (excellent, superb)
- Use for emphasis rather than precision
- Note informal tone in casual speech
- Avoid repetitive use in formal writing
- Practice with different nouns to see nuance
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'greater' mean?
A.Referring to a negative aspect
B.Smaller than expected
C.Larger in size, amount, or importance
D.A form of measurement
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence that uses 'greater' properly.
A.This book is greater than the last one I read.
B.There is a greater amount of rain today than yesterday.
C.Her performance was greaterly appreciated.
D.The greater the number of apples, the better.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'greater'?
A.More
B.Less
C.Equivalent
D.Inferior
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'greater'?
A.Equal
B.Smaller
C.Additional
D.Excessive
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where you would use the word 'greater'?
A.This year's harvest was less than last year's.
B.She has a smaller collection of stamps compared to her brother's.
C.The city's need for affordable housing is far more pressing now.
D.He prefers smaller cars because they are easier to park.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App