Mass: Definition, Usage, and Common Examples

Meaning 1：large-scale (mass)

mass 🔊

/mæs/

adj.

It describes something that involves or affects a very large number of people or things.

Mass production illustrated by a vast electronics factory assembly line with numerous circuit boards.

large-scale 🔊

➕

/ˈlɑːrdʒ skeɪl/

adj.

Describing something that happens or exists on a very large scale, involving many people or a great quantity.

📁 Category：Technological Inventions 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'massa', meaning 'lump, dough', via Greek 'maza' (barley cake).

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'massive' -> 'mass'. Both describe something very large in scale or quantity.

📖 Example

The company uses mass production techniques to manufacture smartphones efficiently and at a lower cost. 🔊 The company uses large-scale production techniques to manufacture smartphones efficiently and at a lower cost.

🔗 Collocations

mass production – The manufacture of goods in large quantities using standardized processes.

mass media – Communication channels that reach a large, widespread audience.

mass appeal – Having qualities that are attractive to a very large number of people.

🔄 Synonyms

large-scale (adj.) – Involving many people or things; extensive.

extensive (adj.) – Covering or affecting a large area or number of things.

widespread (adj.) – Found or distributed over a large area or among many people.

🚫 Antonyms

limited (adj.) – Restricted in size, amount, or extent.

small-scale (adj.) – Involving few people or things; limited in extent.

individual (adj.) – Single; separate; relating to one particular person or thing.

🌱 Derivatives

massive (adj.) – Exceptionally large in scale, size, or degree.

massify (v.) – To produce or organize on a large scale.

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'mass' entered English via Old French from Latin 'massa' (a lump, bulk). In modern culture, it's fundamental to terms like 'mass media', describing communication reaching a vast audience simultaneously.