English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Larger than life
Meaning
The idiom "larger than life" is used to describe someone or something that is extremely lively, energetic, or enthusiastic, often to an exaggerated degree. It can also be used to describe someone who is larger than average in size or weight.
Usage
- She was larger than life on the dance floor, moving and grooving to every beat.
- The carnival attractions were larger than life, towering above everything else in the park.
- He was larger than life at his job, always bustling around and completing tasks quickly.
- The concert was filled with larger than life performances from some of the biggest names in music.
- The new building was larger than life, dwarfing everything else on the campus.
Roots and History
The idiom "larger than life" has its roots in medieval literature, where it was used to describe characters who were larger than average or had an exaggerated personality. Over time, the idiom evolved to include people who were simply very energetic or enthusiastic. It has remained popular in contemporary language and is often used to describe someone who stands out from others.
Synonyms in English
- Bigger than life
- Lively
- Enthusiastic
- Energetic
- Exuberant
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: Vivido, Enérgico/a
- French: Vivace, Anime
- German: Vital, Eifrig
- Italian: Vivo, Enthusiasta
- Japanese: 生きている (Ikiteiru), 監りました (Morimashita)