Another Word for Great: 21 Synonyms with Examples
“Great” can mean very good, very large or very important. It is overused in informal writing, so precise alternatives help.
As an adjective: very good; excellent
- excellent
- wonderful
- superb
- fantastic
- terrific
- marvellous
- outstanding
As an adjective: considerable in size or amount
- large
- huge
- vast
- immense
- enormous
- considerable
- substantial
As an adjective: important or distinguished
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- excellent
- Neutral praise, suitable for formal writing.
- fantastic
- Informal and enthusiastic.
- considerable
- Means large in amount, without the informal tone of “great”.
- eminent
- For respected people in a field: an eminent surgeon.
- renowned
- Famous, usually for a particular quality or achievement.
Example sentences
- excellent: The hotel offers excellent value for money.
- fantastic: We had a fantastic time at the festival.
- considerable: The change caused considerable confusion.
- eminent: An eminent historian gave the opening lecture.
- renowned: The town is renowned for its cheese.
Opposite of great
- terrible
- small
- minor
- insignificant
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “great”. Check the meaning before you use one.
adjective: bully, corking, cracking, dandy, groovy, keen, neat, nifty, swell, smashing
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “great”?
The most useful alternatives are “excellent”, “wonderful”, “superb”, “fantastic”, “terrific”. For the main sense (very good; excellent), “excellent” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “excellent” and “fantastic”?
excellent: Neutral praise, suitable for formal writing. fantastic: Informal and enthusiastic.
What is the opposite of “great”?
Common antonyms are “terrible”, “small”, “minor”, “insignificant”.