Consider this: You might call someone who reveals secrets a “big mouth,” but calling them a “large mouth” sounds fishy (unless you’re talking about a bass). Some phrases sound right to our ears because they’re a part of the everyday vernacular. That’s why we say “bigger and better,” not “larger and better,” and “larger than life,” not “bigger than life.” However, it’s not just about what sounds right. These common expressions reflect the rules behind when to use the comparative adjectives “bigger” and “larger.”
Let’s start with the basic usage of “big” and “large.” “Big” can refer to physical size, but it has a range of uses, including describing extent, intensity, importance, seriousness, popularity, or influence. “Large” is more formal and narrowly focused, referring exclusively to physical size, capacity, quantity, or scope. “Large” doesn’t have the same abstract uses that “big” does. These distinctions carry over to the comparative forms “bigger” and “larger.”
Imagine you’re exploring New York City. You could say, “Central Park is larger than Bryant Park,” or “Central Park is bigger than Bryant Park,” and either would be correct because both are comparing physical size, although “larger” applies to more formal contexts. However, when you’re not talking about size, choosing between these adjectives matters more.
Consider this example: “Times Square is a bigger tourist attraction than the High Line.” Here, “bigger” is correct because it refers to popularity and cultural significance, not physical size. On the flip side, if you’re talking about measurable quantities, “larger” should be your go-to word. For instance, you wouldn’t say, “They invested a bigger amount of money in public transportation this year,” but rather, “They invested a larger amount of money.” When discussing volume, quantifiable amounts, or data, “larger” is the better fit.
So, our final takeaway is this: Use “larger” for physical size, especially anything including dimensions and quantities, and in formal contexts. “Bigger” can still be used for casual references to size, but make sure to use it for comparisons of importance, reputation, influence, or anything abstract. Choosing the right word might seem insignificant, but it can make a bigger difference than you think.
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