“Writ Large” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 7, 2024 by Liam Daniel

This reference covers the idiomatic term “writ large,” explaining its meaning, origin, and usage in various contexts. You will explore examples of how “writ large” is used in conversation and writing and find alternative phrases that carry the same meaning. The term “writ large” is commonly used in informal settings, and this reference provides a comprehensive understanding of this phrase.

Writ Large Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • “Writ large” is an idiomatic expression meaning something is clearly or obviously expressed, or a larger or more prominent version of something. It indicates that a particular quality, characteristic, or idea is emphasized or magnified.
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What Does “Writ Large” Mean?

“Writ large” means something that is clearly or conspicuously expressed or exemplified on a larger scale. It’s often used to indicate that a particular idea or characteristic is being shown in a more obvious or exaggerated form. For example, if a small issue in a family is later reflected in society at large, one might say the family dynamic is “writ large” in society.

It can also mean a broader or more visible manifestation of something that exists in a smaller form.

Origin of this Idiom

The origin of the phrase “writ large” comes from two different words that are put together to form this phrase and give it its meaning. “Writ” simply an abbreviated form of the word “written” meaning something in writing. “Large” simply means bigger and easier to see. Therefore, putting these two words together forms the meaning of the phrase we now know today since something in large writing would be easier to see and more obvious.

Usage of “Writ Large”

  1. To emphasize a prominent quality:
    • “His love for music was writ large in every performance.” (His passion for music was very evident.)
  2. To describe a broader issue:
    • “The political tension in the city is writ large across the entire country.” (The local tension is a reflection of a larger national issue.)
  3. In a visual or noticeable way:
    • “The joy on her face was writ large when she received the award.” (Her happiness was clearly visible.)

In each case, “writ large” suggests that something is either more obvious or serves as a larger representation of a broader concept or feeling.

Related Terms to “Writ Large”

  1. Amplified – Something made larger or more significant in scale or importance.
  2. Exaggerated – Overstated or made to seem more important or intense than it actually is.
  3. Magnified – Enlarged or emphasized to highlight certain characteristics.
  4. Reflected – Mirrored or shown in a larger context.
  5. Emphasized – Given greater importance or attention.
  6. Blown up – Made bigger or more prominent, often beyond its normal size.
  7. Manifested – Made visible or apparent in a clear and large-scale way.
  8. Symbolized – Represented or expressed on a grander scale.
  9. Projected – Presented or extended outward in a larger form.
  10. Embodied – Given a tangible, larger form or representation.

Each of these terms carries the idea of something being expanded or displayed in a more noticeable or prominent way, much like “writ large.”

Other Ways to Say “Writ Large”

As with most idiomatic phrase, the phrase “writ large” can be said in many other ways to convey the same meaning. Some alternative ways that you can say this phrase include:

  • Abundantly obvious
  • Plain to see
  • Hard to miss
  • Obvious
  • Clear
  • In an exaggerated form

“Writ Large” Examples

Example Statements

A statement made in an entertainment magazine about recent movie titles released to theatres.

  • “The successes and failures of a movie are writ large because of the amount of money it takes to make a theatrical film.”

A statement by a celebrity during an interview on the red carpet at an event.

  • “My achievements and failures are writ large. Living in the public eye, it is hard to hide these things from everyone.”

Example Conversations

A conversation between a coach and the quarterback of the football team.

  • Coach: We have to play as a cohesive team.
  • Quarterback: I agree with you coach. If we don’t, it will be writ large.
  • Coach: That’s right and it will leave a window open for the other team to run all over us.

A conversation between a mother and a father.

  • Mother: When Marshall gets home, we must work as a team.
  • Father: I completely agree with you. We have to work together and enforce punishment for breaking curfew.
  • Mother: Yes, because if we don’t it will be writ large. He will see right through us and take advantage of the situation.

Useful examples:

  • Disappointment was writ large on the face of the loser.
  • Hollywood is often said to be American society writ large.
  • I could see the curiosity writ large on Rose’s face.
  • Her life was her personality writ large.
  • Many of the processes are like ordinary domestic engineering writ large.
  • Everybody said, with disapprobation writ large upon their faces.
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