tremendous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
tremendous Word Meanings
- extremely large or great
- causing terror or awe
- wonderful or fantastic
tremendous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
tremendous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/trɪˈmɛn.dəs/
US
/trəˈmɛn.dəs/
tremendous Word Etymology
Root: trem- = shake; suffix -dous = having the qualities of. Historical origin: Latin tremens, tremere (to tremble) → Old French tremender → English tremendous. Memory image: Imagine a massive tremor causing waves, evoking both awe and fear as the ground shakes.
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
Begin by gripping a big box and set your stance. You push it a few inches, feel it resist, then shift your weight as the load grows heavier. The effort climbs, your hands adjust, and your breath tightens as the moment becomes tremendous—part fear, part awe. You let the feeling sink in and carry the sense of size and excitement into how you place it down, quietly impressed.
Real Context
Tremendous is a versatile adjective that can describe size, amount, impact, or quality, often with a strong emotional charge. It can mean extremely large or great, as in tremendous growth or a tremendous crowd, or convey awe or fear in contexts like a tremendous storm. It also appears in praise, as in a tremendous performance, suggesting more than simply good. Etymology traces trem- “shake” with the suffix -dous “having the qualities of”, from Latin tremens tremere, through Old French tremender into English. In modern usage it fits formal writing and informal speech, but learners should watch for collocations and tone: overusing it can feel exaggerated or insincere. Use alongside other intensifiers to vary emphasis.
Usage Reminders
- Remember that tremendous can describe size, amount, impact, or quality
- It often carries strong positive or awe-inspiring nuance
- Use with concrete nouns (progress, effort, storm) for clarity
- Avoid overuse in formal writing; reserve for emphasis
- Pair with other intensifiers to modulate tone
- Check comfort with related words (enormous, immense, phenomenal) to vary expression
Common Misconceptions
- Only describes physical size
- Can always be replaced by very without changing meaning
- Cannot describe emotions or actions
- Only used in formal writing
- Always has a positive connotation
Thinking Differences
English speakers often use tremendous for strong emphasis across concrete and abstract nouns; learners should note its flexibility and potential hyperbole.
Learning Tips
- Compare with synonyms: huge, enormous, immense to feel nuance
- Note collocations: tremendous progress, tremendous effort
- Watch tone: can be praise or fear; adjust accordingly
- Practice with varied contexts: success, disasters, experiences
- Check register: less common in very formal writing; use for emphasis
- Use memory image: a massive tremor evokes awe and fear
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'tremendous'?
A.Delicate
B.Beautiful
C.Tiny
D.Enormous
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'tremendous' used correctly?
A.The party was a tremendous success.
B.She was feeling lazy after eating a tremendous meal.
C.He was walking gracefully with a tremendous stride.
D.The flowers in the garden were tremendous in color.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'tremendous'?
A.Ordinary
B.Small
C.Confusing
D.Huge
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'tremendous'?
A.Sizable
B.Average
C.Minor
D.Mediocre
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life situation where you can use the word 'tremendous'?
A.Describing a plain salad
B.Describing a small toy
C.Explaining a large waterfall
D.Telling a boring story
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