big boys: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘big boys’ mean?
The idiom "big boys" is used to refer to influential or powerful individuals or companies. It implies that these individuals or companies are significant players in a specific field or industry.
Idiom Explorer
"Large and in charge" is an idiom that means someone is in a position of power or authority, and they are confident and capable of handling their responsibilities.
An idiom meaning an individual or thing that is the most impressive or influential among others in a given field or situation.
The idiom "in a big way" means to do something on a large scale, with great intensity or significance.
The idiom "good old boy" refers to a person, typically a man, who is seen as trustworthy, loyal, and part of a close-knit community or group. It often implies that this person follows traditional values and has influence or connections within that community.
The idiom "everybody who is anybody" means that only the most important or influential people are included or recognized in a particular group or situation.
The idiom "blue-eyed boy" refers to someone who is highly favored or regarded in a particular group or organization.
The idiom "big wheel" refers to a person who has great power, influence, or importance in a particular field or organization.
The idiom "big tamale" refers to a person who holds a position of great importance or power within a group or organization. It emphasizes their significance and influence, similar to how a tamale, a traditional Mexican dish, is often the centerpiece of a meal.
The idiom "big shot" refers to someone who is powerful, influential, or successful. It is often used to describe someone who has achieved a high status in a particular field or industry.
Powerful Giants.
The idiom "big boys" in English refers to powerful or influential individuals or organizations in various contexts, such as business or politics. It symbolizes the prominence, strength, and importance associated with these individuals or entities. The term "boys" is used informally to convey camaraderie, although it can be applied to both men and women. The idiom is closely linked to the concept of power and dominance, representing those who possess significant influence, wealth, or control within a specific field.
The idiom "big boys" is associated with masculinity, as the term "boys" suggests authoritative male figures or leaders. This connection to gender highlights broader societal dynamics and power structures. It is worth considering how societal perceptions of masculinity play a role in the usage of this idiom.
In terms of its origins, it is challenging to pinpoint the exact source of the idiom "big boys," but it gained popularity in the 20th century, particularly in the realms of politics, business, and sports. These domains, known for their focus on power dynamics and competition, were fertile grounds for the emergence and adoption of this idiom.
It is important to note that the idiom "big boys" can be interpreted both positively and negatively. Positively, it can evoke admiration or respect for those who have achieved success and influence. Conversely, it can also carry negative connotations, suggesting dominance or manipulation. The context and tone in which the idiom is used play a significant role in determining its intended meaning.
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In addition to the overarching meaning of "big boys," it is interesting to explore the related idioms that add further nuance and depth to its interpretation. The idioms "big fish" and "big gun" are closely connected to the concept of the "big boys."
"Big fish" refers to a person or organization that holds considerable influence or importance in a particular field. It signifies someone who stands out or excels among others, similar to how "big boys" represents individuals or entities with significant power or control.
"Big gun" also relates to the idea of power, prominence, and authority. It is often used to describe a person who possesses exceptional skills or influence in a specific area. This idiom aligns with the concept of the "big boys" as it emphasizes the dominance and command wielded by these individuals or organizations.
The connection between these idioms illuminates the varied ways in which power and influence are expressed and understood within society. While each idiom highlights different aspects and nuances, they collectively contribute to our understanding of the dynamics and structures of power in various domains.
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To summarize, the idiom "big boys" is used in English to refer to powerful individuals or organizations. It carries connotations of prominence, strength, and importance. The overall associations of the idiom are closely related to power, dominance, and masculinity. The origins of this idiom are difficult to trace, but it became prevalent in the 20th century, particularly in business, politics, and sports. Its usage can be both positive and negative, depending on the context. Additionally, the idioms "big fish" and "big gun" are interconnected with the concept of the "big boys," further expanding our understanding of power dynamics and influence. Together, these idioms offer insights into the complexities of authority and control in society.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *big boys* can be used in a sentence:
- The big boys in the industry have been dominating the market for years.
- It's time for you to join the big boys and take on more challenging projects.
- He wanted to prove that he was one of the big boys, so he took on the most difficult task.
More "Colloquial" idioms
