French Conversation · Level 18
89 words
French word
gros
Pronunciation
IPA/gʁo/
Meaning
- adjectivebig
Example
Il a un gros problème.
He has a big problem.
More examples
C'est un gros mensonge.
It's a big lie.
Core concept
A thick, weighty presence that takes up space and carries a sense of abundance or importance.
Common phrases
gros problème
big problem
gros mensonge
big lie
gros succès
great success
Similar words
grand: Large in physical dimensions such as height or length.
énorme: Exceptionally large, far beyond the usual size.
lourd: Having considerable weight and being hard to lift.
épais: Having considerable thickness.
Definition in French
Qui a une grande taille, un grand volume ou une forte importance; s'emploie pour des objets, des personnes et des quantités.
Word origin
French gros comes through Old French from Latin grossus, meaning thick or heavy, and developed meanings for size, quantity, and significance.
Usage tips
- For physical size, gros emphasizes bulk or thickness, whereas grand more often emphasizes height, length, or overall dimensions.