# grandiose

/ˈɡɹændiˌoʊs/ (US) · /ɡɹˈændɪˌəʊz/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/grandiose
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The hotel has a grandiose entrance with gold-plated doors.
- He had a grandiose plan to build a skyscraper in the middle of the park, ignoring the local residents' concerns.
- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.