tall
/tɔːl/
This term describes verticality relative to a standard or a surrounding environment. When applied to people, it carries a neutral or positive connotation of stature, whereas when applied to objects, it emphasizes the ratio of height to width. It differs from high, which typically refers to a position above a base level or a specific elevation rather than the measurement of the object itself. While the word follows standard adjective patterns, it is frequently used in comparative and superlative forms to establish a hierarchy of height within a specific group. It does not possess irregular pluralization or countability constraints, as it functions as a descriptive modifier rather than a noun.
Meanings
Examples
The basketball player is remarkably tall for his age.
The tall pine trees swayed gently in the wind.
She served the iced tea in a tall glass.
Collocations & Compounds
tall building
Noun collocation: a structure that extends a great distance upward
The city skyline is dominated by a tall building.
tall glass
Noun collocation: a container with a high vertical dimension relative to its width
She ordered a tall glass of iced tea.
tall tree
Noun collocation: a plant with a high vertical trunk
The tall tree provided shade for the entire garden.
tall person
Noun collocation: an individual of greater than average height
He is a very tall person compared to his siblings.
stand tall
Verb collocation: to maintain an upright posture or show confidence
Despite the criticism, she continued to stand tall.
Idioms & Sayings
stand tall
to maintain one's dignity or pride in a difficult situation
Despite the criticism, she continued to stand tall and defend her research.
a tall order
a task or request that is very difficult to fulfill
Asking the team to finish the entire project by tomorrow is a tall order.