The Big Time 🌟
The Big Time – A high level of achievement or prominence in any area. This usage dates from the early 1900s. For example, “Barry’s band has reached the big time; it’s going to play in a New York club.” The term can also be used adjectivally, as in “Being named to the board, that’s a big-time promotion.”
Synonyms:
- Milestone
- Pinnacle
- Zenith
- Summit
- Top of the heap
Antonyms:
- Rock bottom
- Gutter
- Bottom of the barrel
- Low point
Similar Terms:
- On top of the world
- Rising star
- Making it big
- Hitting the jackpot
Humorous Quote:
“In the big time, everyone knows your name, including the IRS!” – Chuckles McGee
Proverbs:
- “Reach for the stars!”
- “The higher you climb, the harder you fall.”
- “Success isn’t the key to happiness; happiness is the key to success.”
In Literature and Media:
- Literature: “The Bonfire of the Vanities” by Tom Wolfe; a satirical exploration of ambition and success in 1980s New York.
- Movie: “The Pursuit of Happyness” starring Will Smith; an inspiring tale about hard work and achieving the big time.
- Song: “We Are the Champions” by Queen; the ultimate anthem for anyone who’s reached the pinnacle.
- Poetry: “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley; affirming resilience and victory.
- Book: “Outliers” by Malcolm Gladwell; dives into the factors that contribute to high levels of success.
### Which of these phrases means attaining high levels of success?
- [x] The big time
- [ ] The minor league
- [ ] A small fish in a big pond
- [ ] On thin ice
> **Explanation:** "The big time" signifies a high level of achievement, whereas the other options imply lesser prominence or precarious situations.
### Which of these expressions is synonymous with 'big time'?
- [ ] Bottom of the heap
- [x] Pinnacle
- [ ] Gutter
- [ ] Low point
> **Explanation:** "Pinnacle" is a synonym for "big time" as it represents reaching the highest point of success.
### True or False: 'Being named to the board, that’s a big-time promotion' uses the term correctly.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** Yes, it correctly showcases 'big-time' as an adjective denoting a significant level of success or importance.
Parting Thought 🤔
“To achieve the big time, mix equal parts of dreams and hustle. Remember, even astronauts had to start by looking up.” – Stellar Quipster
