bulk

Everyday

1. The bulk of something is most of it: «the bulk of the work». tree →
2. Bulk is the large size or weight of something: «the elephant's huge bulk». tree →
3. In bulk means in large amounts, usually for a cheaper price each: «buy rice in bulk». tree →
4. To bulk up is to get bigger, often by gaining muscle. tree →

In the lessons

In maths and shopping, buying in bulk usually means a lower price per item, so pupils compare unit prices. In stories «bulk» describes a large heavy body or object. In science «bulk» can mean the main mass of something. Phrases: the bulk of, in bulk, bulk buy, bulk up.

Examples

• The bulk of the class finished early. tree →
• We buy toilet paper in bulk because it's cheaper. tree →
• The bear's great bulk blocked the path. tree →
• He's trying to bulk up for rugby. tree →
• The bulk of the money went on the new library. tree →
• A bulk pack of 24 pencils costs less per pencil. tree →
• The great bulk of them are not the immediate work of Æsop. tree →

Note

«The bulk of» = most of, more than half. In maths: bulk buying a pack of 10 for 4 pounds makes each one cost 40p. Adjective «bulky» means big and awkward to carry.