How Do You Spell AT LARGE?

Pronunciation: [at lˈɑːd͡ʒ] (IPA)

The spelling of the phrase "at large" consists of two primary sounds in English: /æt/ and /lɑrdʒ/. The first sound, /æt/, represents the vowel sound in "cat" and "bat," while the second sound, /lɑrdʒ/, represents a voiced alveolar-palatal approximant, like the "z" sound in "azure." Together, these sounds create the phrase "at large," which is commonly used to describe someone who is free or not confined to a specific location or situation.

AT LARGE Meaning and Definition

1. At large is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone or something that is not limited, confined, or restricted to a particular location, group, or category. This term is commonly found in legal, political, or social contexts.

   In a legal context, when a person is said to be "at large," it means that they are free, particularly from custody or confinement. This can refer to a criminal who has not been captured or apprehended, or someone who has been released on bail pending trial.

   In a political context, when a politician or public official is said to be "at large," it means that they are serving in an elected position that represents an entire region or district, rather than a specific locality or constituency. They are not bound to a single area, but rather, accountable to the entire population they represent.

   In a social context, the term "at large" is often used to describe a phenomenon or entity that transcends boundaries or distinctions. For instance, a problem or issue that affects a wide range of people or places may be referred to as a problem "at large."

   Overall, the phrase "at large" connotes absence of confinement, encompassing a broad spectrum or jurisdiction, and being unconfined or unrestricted in one's actions or responsibilities.

Common Misspellings for AT LARGE

• alarge
• atlarge
• att-large
• at-largge
• at larage
• atlarg
• allarge
• attlarge
• attlaarge

Etymology of AT LARGE

The phrase "at large" has its origins in Middle English. The word "large" originally came from Old French "larg", meaning "spacious" or "wide". In Middle English, the phrase "at large" referred to something being "at liberty" or "on the loose". It was often used in legal contexts to describe a fugitive or an escaped prisoner who was still free and not captured. Over time, the phrase "at large" has evolved to have a broader meaning, referring to someone or something being unrestricted or not confined to a specific area.

Idioms with the word AT LARGE

• be at large The idiom "be at large" means to be free or at liberty, often in the context of someone who is supposed to be confined or detained. It implies that the person is unrestrained and not under control or supervision.
• at large The idiom "at large" means free or not confined or imprisoned; in a general sense or as a whole, rather than in specific details. It can also refer to someone who is still not captured or not yet under control.

Similar spelling words for AT LARGE

• atelier,
• at-large.