full-scale
Americanadjective
-
having the exact size or proportions of the original.
a full-scale replica.
-
using all possible means, facilities, etc.; complete.
The factory will commence full-scale operation next month.
noun
-
(of a plan, etc) of actual size; having the same dimensions as the original
-
done with thoroughness or urgency; using all resources; all-out
Etymology
Origin of full-scale
First recorded in 1930–35
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A second senior government official also confirmed the talks, adding: "The meeting is to set a base for full-scale dialogue."
From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026
In the final week of February, as Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, BBC Russian's audience more than trebled in size, reaching 10 million people.
From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026
The war in Iran has shown how energy security is still one of Europe’s biggest strategic weaknesses, four years into Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026
But whipping up one of her full-scale smorgasbords of sprinkled donuts, popcorn and nigiri for a gallery display isn’t mere child’s play.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026
After two days of minor irritation, a full-scale epidermal breakdown is under way.
From "Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America" by Barbara Ehrenreich
![]()
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.