ENGLISH
REFERENCE

grandiose

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ˈɡɹændiˌoʊs// UK //ɡɹˈændɪˌəʊz// grandiose

adj. describing something that is very large, expensive, or impressive, often in a way that is too much for the situation. It can also describe a person who thinks they are much more important than they really are.

adj. characterised by an exaggerated sense of importance or scale; overly elaborate or ambitious. Often used to describe architectural styles or individuals with an inflated self-image.


SIMPLE

The hotel has a grandiose entrance with gold-plated doors.

CONTEXTUAL

He had a grandiose plan to build a skyscraper in the middle of the park, ignoring the local residents' concerns.

COMPLEX

The architect's grandiose vision for the new museum was eventually scaled back to fit the city's budget and the practical limitations of the site.

Synonyms
Origin

From French grandiose, from Italian grandioso, from Latin grandis (“great, grand”) (English grand). Possibly from grand + -ose, though to be debated. Doublet of grandioso.

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