WordValecolossal
extremely large
In more detail
extremely large; huge or massive
Examples
- The colossal statue stood over 100 feet tall.
- Building the bridge was a colossal undertaking that took five years.
How to use colossal
Colossal describes something that is extremely large in size or scale, and can be used literally for physical dimensions or figuratively for abstract concepts like failures or expenses. It is more emphatic and dramatic than 'large' or 'big', often suggesting something impressively or overwhelmingly vast. It shares much ground with 'enormous' and 'gigantic' but can sometimes carry a tone of awe or disapproval depending on context.
Common phrases
- colossal statue
- colossal failure
- colossal mistake
- colossal waste
- colossal sum of money
Synonyms
enormous · gigantic · massive · immense · tremendous
Opposites
tiny · minuscule · insignificant
Word family
colossally (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use 'colossal' to describe something merely large or significant when the intended meaning requires the extra emphasis; it should be reserved for truly enormous or extraordinary things.
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