What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
biggest
Example
He has the biggest collection of stamps in the world. [biggest: superlative adjective]
Example
The biggest challenge in this project is the lack of funding. [biggest: superlative adjective]
largest
Example
Africa is the largest continent in terms of land area. [largest: superlative adjective]
Example
Tokyo is the largest city in Japan. [largest: superlative adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Biggest is more commonly used than largest in everyday language. Biggest is a more general term that can be applied to a wide range of situations, while largest has a more specific connotation related to size or quantity.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between biggest and largest?
Both biggest and largest can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, largest may be slightly more formal due to its specific connotation related to size or quantity.