gross - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
gross Word Meanings
- extremely large or important
- unpleasant or disgusting
- total amount before deductions
gross Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
gross Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɡrəʊs/
US
/ɡroʊs/
gross Word Etymology
gross = large + es. Originated from Latin 'grossus' → Old French 'gros' → English. Imagine a giant pile of something unpleasant, overwhelming your senses.
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
Hands on the lever, I push and the thing rises a little under my palms. I shift my weight and adjust my grip, watching the object seem to grow bigger in my field of view. The effort bites, the arms burn just enough that I pause, then hold steady. When the numbers settle in front of me, the word gross lands like a heavy weight—the total before deductions, big and undeniable.
Real Context
Gross is a versatile English word with three main strands of meaning. As an adjective it can describe something extremely large or important, often conveying a sense of scale that is overwhelming or impressive, for example a gross amount or a gross error. It can also describe something unpleasant or disgusting, such as a gross smell or a gross movie. As a noun, gross refers to the total amount before any deductions, such as gross income or gross weight, before taxes and expenses are subtracted. Learners should note that gross is not the same as net, and that usage can vary slightly between American and British English in formality and nuance.
Usage Reminders
- Know the three senses of gross: size/importance, unpleasantness, and total before deductions.
- Pair with gross income, gross weight, gross profit in finance.
- Remember the contrast with net; net = after deductions.
- In casual speech, gross can mean disgusting, but tone matters.
- Avoid overusing gross for everyday praise; reserve for strong emphasis.
- Be mindful of regional preferences (US vs UK) in formality.
Common Misconceptions
- Gross does not mean neat or tidy
- Gross is not the same as net in financial contexts
- Gross can describe something unpleasant, not just quantity
- Do not use gross to praise something mild; use stronger synonyms
- Gross vs grossly: gross is a noun/adjective phrase; grossly is an adverb
Thinking Differences
For English learners, gross is a multi-tool word with distinct senses that often clash in translation; keep the finance sense separate from the taste/feelings sense and practice with collocations like gross income vs net income.
Learning Tips
- Compare gross with net to see the difference in finance
- Use collocations: gross revenue, gross weight, gross income
- Note when gross describes size vs unpleasantness
- Remember regional variations US vs UK
- Identify whether gross is a noun or an adjective in context
- Practice with both positive and negative senses in sentences
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'gross' correctly?
A.He thought the slimy texture of the dessert was gross.
B.The gross of the company was small this year.
C.She felt sick from the sheer grossness of the movie.
D.The gross mountain stood majestically in the distance.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'gross'?
A.Repulsive
B.Pleasant
C.Clean
D.Tasty
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'gross'?
A.Gross
B.Delicious
C.Large
D.Tiny
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'gross'?
A.He felt overwhelmed with happiness at the sight of his newborn baby.
B.The breathtaking beauty of the sunset left everyone in awe.
C.The putrid smell of rotten food in the garbage bin made her feel sick.
D.The cacophony of city sounds outside her window was music to her ears.
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