On the big, small, high, etc. side
idiom
Slightly beyond the average size, amount, extent, degree, or norm.
The meal portions at this restaurant are on the big side.
Often appears as...
- on the small side
- on the high side
Usage tips
Colloquial
idiom
A bit more than acceptable or average.
The prices of this store are on the high side.
Often appears as...
- on the high end
- slightly above average
idiom
A little less than average or normal.
The temperatures today are on the small side.
Often appears as...
- on the low end
- slightly below average
idiom
Slightly beyond the average size, amount, extent, degree, or norm.
The meal portions at this restaurant are on the big side.
Often appears as...
- on the small side
- on the high side
Usage tips
Colloquial
idiom
A bit more than acceptable or average.
The prices of this store are on the high side.
Often appears as...
- on the high end
- slightly above average
idiom
A little less than average or normal.
The temperatures today are on the small side.
Often appears as...
- on the low end
- slightly below average
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Slight Overstatement
Use it to stress something is a bit more than usual without exaggerating too much.
The sweater's on the big side, but it's comfy.
Pro Tip 2/3Subjective Perception
Reflects personal opinion; what's 'big' for one might be normal for another.
For her, the apartment was on the big side.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Always Negative
The phrase sometimes implies a positive quality or benefit.
The phone's on the big side, which makes the screen easier to read.
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