big girl: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘big girl’ mean?
The idiom big girl refers to a grown woman who handles tough or difficult situations with maturity and strength.
Idiom Explorer
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The idiom "grow up" means to mature or become an adult, both physically and emotionally. It implies the development of responsible behavior and leaving behind childish characteristics and attitudes.
The idiom "grow some balls" means to have courage or become more assertive when facing a challenge or making a decision.
The idiom "get a grip" means to take control of one’s emotions or behavior, regain composure, or regain control over a situation.
The idiom "do it tough" means to face or endure a difficult or challenging situation with determination and resilience.
The idiom "cowboy up" means to toughen up or show courage and determination in the face of a challenge or difficult situation.
The idiom "come of age" refers to the point in a person's life when they reach adulthood or become mature and responsible.
An idiom meaning a man in a situation of power or control in a predominantly female environment, often causing disruption or imbalance.
Evolutionary Significance
The idiom "big girl" is a well-known phrase in the English language. It carries various connotations and is used in different contexts, but its core meaning remains relatively consistent.
One of the primary uses of the idiom "big girl" is to refer to a mature or grown woman. This usage implies that a woman should be able to handle difficult situations on her own without assistance.
The idiom also denotes bravery and strength in the face of adversity. When someone is called a "big girl," it suggests that they possess the courage and resilience to confront and overcome obstacles.
Additionally, the idiom can be used in a dismissive or patronizing way. Telling someone to "be a big girl" can imply that they are being overly sensitive or childish and need to behave more maturely.
The origin of the idiom "big girl" is not entirely clear. It likely emerged from the concept of maturity and adult responsibilities. "Big" is associated with being older or more developed, while "girl" specifically refers to a female. Combining these words creates a phrase that implies female independence and strength.
Overall, the idiom "big girl" encompasses a range of meanings and contexts, from denoting maturity and self-sufficiency to representing bravery and resilience. It is a phrase that captures various aspects of female empowerment and growth. Its usage can be both uplifting and dismissive, depending on the intent behind the statement. While the origins of the idiom are uncertain, its widespread use reflects its relevance and resonance in contemporary language.
Similar to the idiom "big girl," there are related idioms such as "big boy" and "business girl" that are used in different contexts.
The idiom "big boy" carries a similar connotation of maturity and self-sufficiency as "big girl." It is used to refer to a grown man who is expected to handle difficult situations independently.
On the other hand, the idiom "business girl" focuses more on the professional aspect of maturity and independence. It describes a young woman who is successful and confident in her career pursuits.
These related idioms, like "big girl," highlight the expectations society has for individuals to be capable, strong, and independent in different areas of their lives. They emphasize the importance of self-sufficiency and resilience in navigating challenges and achieving success.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *big girl* can be used in a sentence:
- She showed maturity and took responsibility like a big girl.
- It's time for you to be a big girl and deal with your own problems.
- As a big girl, she didn't let her failures discourage her.
More "Slang" idioms
