greatest - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
greatest Word Meanings
- of an extent, amount, or intensity considerably above the normal or average
- of high quality or importance
- impressive or excellent
greatest Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
greatest Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/greɪt/
US
/ɡreɪt/
greatest 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 is the meaning of the word 'greatest'?
A.Tallest
B.Largest
C.Smallest
D.Brightest
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'greatest' used correctly?
A.He is the brightest person I know.
B.He is the smallest person I know.
C.He is the tallest person I know.
D.He is the greatest person I know.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'greatest'?
A.Fattest
B.Shortest
C.Longest
D.Heaviest
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'greatest'?
A.Dullest
B.Largest
C.Brightest
D.Smallest
Step 5: Mastery
In what context would someone be described as 'the greatest'?
A.Being the most disorganized person at work.
B.Being the worst student in a class.
C.Being the most dishonest person in a group.
D.Being the fastest runner in a race.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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