Grandioses

Grandioses is the plural form of the French adjective grandiose, used to describe nouns that convey grandeur, majesty, or extravagant scale. It is employed when referring to several objects or ideas that share these qualities. As with most French adjectives, grandiose agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies: masculine plural and feminine plural both take the form grandioses. For example, des bâtiments grandioses and des œuvres grandioses illustrate its use with different genders.

Etymology and form: the word derives from Latin grandiosus, through French grandiose, with the suffix -ose forming an adjective meaning characterized by greatness or splendor. The plural form grandioses appears in contexts describing multiple nouns that possess grandiose qualities.

Usage and connotation: grandioses is common in literary, architectural, and critical language. It can be employed descriptively in neutral or positive senses to highlight impressive scale, or it can carry a critical or ironic undertone, signaling pomp, excess, or pretentiousness. The nuance often depends on the surrounding text and the speaker’s intent.

Typical contexts: discussions of monumental architecture, expansive landscapes, elaborate performances, or ambitious cultural projects. In each case, grandioses signals a perception of grand scale and striking visual or conceptual impact, while leaving room for interpretation regarding taste or appropriateness.

See also: grandiose (French adjective), grandiosity, French grammar on adjective agreement.