At Large

Meaning of Idiom ‘At Large’

To be at large means to be free; not in custody, imprisoned, or otherwise confined.

A synonym for on the loose.

Less Common Meanings

1. At length, fully; generally.

2. Elected to represent an entire group rather than just a segment. ¹Jarvie, Gordon. Bloomsbury Dictionary of Idioms. London: Bloomsbury, 2009. ²Ammer, Christine. American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2013.

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Sentence Examples

“The two fugitives are still at large and were last seen on the outskirts of the city.”

“Suspects have been identified in the bank robbery earlier this morning. The subjects are still at large.”

“What’s going on?” “Jack, it’s Richard Fenton. He escaped from jail three days ago. He’s at large.”— Prom Night (2008)

“How can I rest when he’s at large? Who knows what he’ll get up to next?”— Illusive Tracks (2003)

“DCP Rudra has received Nagori’s arrest warrant, but he hasn’t apprehended Nagori yet. He’s still at large.” — Policegiri (2013)

“Is he dead?” “No. He’s at large, and believed to have escaped.”— Alias: Second Double (2003)

“It was him, sire, the hooded man.” “It’s a wonder he ever remains at large.” “Sire, he is nothing if not cunning.” — Beyond Sherwood Forest (2009)

Origin

The most common meaning has been used since the 1300’s. The others are later, from the 1400’s and 1700’s respectively.

More Idioms Starting with A

• Add Fuel to the Fire
• All Tuckered Out
• Are You Writing a Book?
• Army Brat
• And How

More At Idioms

• Jump At Something (chance, offer, opportunity)
• At the Drop of a Hat
• At Hand
• Ill at Ease
• At Your Fingertips
• At Your Wit’s End
• At the End of Your Rope

More Large Idioms

• By and Large

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