ENGLISH
REFERENCE

give it the big one

idiom
Meaning

To behave in an arrogant or self-important manner; to boast.


Examples
SIMPLE

Stop giving it the big one about your new car.

CONTEXTUAL

He was giving it the big one at the bar, acting like he owned the whole company.

COMPLEX

Despite his lack of actual experience, he continued to give it the big one, alienating the senior staff with his unearned confidence.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    as best one can

    In the best possible way, given one's circumstances and abilities.

  2. 02

    as far as one knows

    To the best of one's knowledge, as far as someone knows or possible information to be gathered about the topic, subject, aspect, or situation.

  3. 03

    back to square one

    Located back at the start, as after a dead end or failure.

  4. 04

    beat as one

    To share the same feelings.

  5. 05

    become one flesh

    To join together in marriage; to develop a unifying bond as a result of marrying.

  6. 06

    big boy

    A large object or person.

  7. 07

    big boys

    The people or bodies with the most influence and/or power.

  8. 08

    big break

    A breakthrough, especially the first big hit of a previously unknown performer or performers in the entertainment industry.

Last updated April 17, 2026