Congratulations for reaching Year 4 of your English Studies. For Year 4 American English vocabulary, we will work on American English idioms as well as short videos explaining a term heard in a movie.
- Directions: Click on the link below to learn 3 American English Idioms
BIG WHEEL, BIGWIG, and BIRD’S EYE VIEW: American English Idioms #16
- Directions: Watch the video below to learn a new English vocabulary term
4.16.1: Year 4 American English Vocabulary and Idioms # 16
” Big wheel and Bigwig ” are indeed similar idioms, but they are slightly different connotations and
usage.
Both idioms refer to an important or influential person. This person may be a boss, politician, employe or another important figure. But ” big wheel” typically implies someone, who is powerful, successful, or prominent in a particular field or organization. it often carries a sense of admiration or respect.
”Bigwig” on the other hand, can imply someone who is not only important but also somewhat pompous, self- important, or arrogant. it can have a slightly negative or satirical tone
For example, he is a big wheel in the tech industry. (neutral, respectful tone)
He thinks he is a bigwig just because he is CEO (slightly negative/ sarcastic tone)
” Bird’s eye view”
The meaning of, ‘Bird’s eye view is view from a high angle or a view from high place that allow you to see a large area.
Example sentences… From up here you can get a bird’s eye view of the entire campus.
Climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower, if you want a bird’s eye view of Paris.