the big leagues

plural noun

US

: the two highest U.S. baseball leagues (the American League and the National League)

He always dreamed of playing in the big leagues.

—often used figuratively

She's moving up to the big leagues in the television industry.

She's in the big leagues now, working for a major law firm in a large city.

Examples of the big leagues in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Over breakfast, Jeter answered Lombard’s questions about life in the big leagues and life with the Yankees, and offered advice. — Brendan Kuty, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026

Alcantara has thrown 205 innings this season, which is the most in the big leagues. — ABC News, 15 Sep. 2026

An early taste of the big leagues, even with his playing time expected to come mostly at DH, could be beneficial for the 21-year-old’s development. — Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 10 Sep. 2026

But after getting a taste of baseball, does Forsling think his hockey skills — particularly his slap shot that is one of the harder ones in the NHL — could translate to getting a hit in the big leagues? — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 8 Sep. 2026

Rhymes for the big leagues

• fatigues
• intrigues