at large (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

The phrase "at large" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase.

Phonetic Transcription

/æt lɑrdʒ/

Meaning and Usage

The phrase "at large" has several meanings:

1. As a whole: Referring to something in an encompassing way, often used to indicate that something includes everything or everyone.
2. In a state of escape: Typically used in legal contexts to describe a suspect who has not yet been captured.
3. In general terms: When referring to opinions or descriptions that apply broadly rather than to specifics.

The phrase "at large" is used with moderate frequency in both oral speech and written contexts, although it can appear more frequently in formal or legal writing.

Example Sentences

1. The committee's decisions will be communicated to the public at large.
   Translation: Las decisiones del comité se comunicarán al público en general.

2. The fugitive remained at large for several months before being apprehended.
   Translation: El fugitivo permaneció prófugo durante varios meses antes de ser capturado.

3. The views of the community at large should be taken into account in the planning process.
   Translation: Las opiniones de la comunidad en general deben tenerse en cuenta en el proceso de planificación.

Idiomatic Expressions

The phrase "at large" appears in several idiomatic expressions:

• "At large" (in common usage): Referring to a general audience or population.
  Example: The issue of climate change concerns society at large.
  Translation: El problema del cambio climático preocupa a la sociedad en general.

• "At large and at liberty": Indicates a person who is free and has not been captured or restrained.
  Example: The suspect is still at large and at liberty, posing a threat to the community.
  Translation: El sospechoso sigue prófugo y en libertad, representando una amenaza para la comunidad.

• "At large" (legal): Used to describe a criminal or fugitive who has not been apprehended.
  Example: The criminal remains at large, and police are asking for public assistance.
  Translation: El criminal sigue prófugo, y la policía está pidiendo ayuda al público.

Etymology

The phrase "at large" dates back to Middle English (circa 1375) and combines "at," which has origins in Old English, and "large," derived from the Latin "largus," meaning "broad" or "generous." Originally, it implied a sense of being free or unrestricted.

Synonyms

• In general
• Widely
• Overall

Antonyms

• Captured
• Restricted
• Limited

The phrase "at large" continues to hold significance in various contexts, particularly in legal and formal discussions, reflecting its versatility and depth in the English language.