by and large
By and large — Generally speaking, on the whole. 🌎 The expression hails from the salty seas of seamanship. Picture an old mariner, one hand on the wheel, the other clutching a spyglass: When a vessel is close-hauled (sailing optimally against the wind), “by and large” instructs the helmsman to ease off slightly, making the ship easier to steer. Because this directive is a tad vague, sailors began using “by and large” to mean “in general.”
Synonyms
- In general
- On the whole
- Overall
- Mainly
- For the most part
Antonyms
- Specifically
- In detail
- To a lesser extent
Similar Expressions
- “For all intents and purposes”
- “All things considered”
- “As a rule”
- “The bigger picture”
- “Broad strokes”
Humor-filled Quote 🔍
“Oh, by and large, life’s a sea voyage marked by storms and fair winds—just remember to pack extra snacks!” - Captain Chuckles
Related Proverbs
- “You can’t direct the wind, but you can adjust your sails.”
- “Smooth seas never made a skilled sailor.”
Literary and Media Recommendations
- Book: Moby Dick by Herman Melville — Dive into this nautical classic for a heavy splash of maritime terminology.
- Song: “Sailing” by Christopher Cross — Let this serene tune set your sails toward relaxation.
- Movie: Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World — Watch as Captain Jack Aubrey adeptly navigates the treacherous waters of wartime sea.
### Which phrase is a nautical idiom?
- [ ] Walking on fluffy clouds
- [x] By and large
- [ ] Dancing with the moon
- [ ] Snorkeling in dreams
> **Explanation:** "By and large" is a maritime term that means "in general." The others, while imaginative, don’t quite have the same historical weight.
### What does 'by and large' mean?
- [ ] Specifically focusing
- [ ] Exclusively detailing
- [x] Generally speaking
- [ ] Partially investing
> **Explanation:** It means "generally speaking." So, *by and large*, you got this one!
### True or False: 'By and large' has its origins in carpentry
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** False! It's from seamanship. Carpentry? That’s a different woodwork world to explore!
### Which of these is a synonym for 'by and large'?
- [x] On the whole
- [ ] Minute by minute
- [ ] Piece by piece
- [ ] Tiptoe through tulips
> **Explanation:** "On the whole" is a synonym, meaning "in general". The other choices are not quite so all-encompassing.
### Which is an appropriate use of 'by and large'?
- [ ] By and large, I went to the supermarket to buy a specific brand of cereal.
- [x] By and large, people enjoy sunny weather during their holidays.
- [ ] By and large, she counted each coin individually.
- [ ] By and large, the tiny details of his story were the most crucial.
> **Explanation:** "By and large, people enjoy sunny weather during their holidays" is the right context, indicating a general statement.
“Keep steering your ship, by and large, towards your dreams and aspirations. Bon Voyage!” - T. T. Tallyho
