vaste

vast, huge, wide

adjective VAST Rare

Origin: Latin 'vastus' (empty, immense)

Usage Note

Vaste can precede or follow a noun, though it typically precedes it for emphasis: un vaste programme (an ambitious programme). It is also used ironically — Charles de Gaulle's dry remark 'Vaste programme!' in response to the slogan 'Death to idiots!' became a famous French cultural reference.

Examples

"La plaine s'étend sur un vaste territoire."

Natural Translation

The plain extends across a vast territory.

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