Returns the k-th largest value in a data set. You can use this function to select a value based on its relative standing. For example, you can use LARGE to return the highest, runner-up, or third-place score.

Syntax

LARGE(array,k)

Array is the array or range of data for which you want to determine the k-th largest value.

K is the position (from the largest) in the array or cell range of data to return.

Remarks

If n is the number of data points in a range, then LARGE(array,1) returns the largest value, and LARGE(array,n) returns the smallest value.

Example

The example may be easier to understand if you copy it to a blank worksheet.

How to copy an example

  1. Create a blank workbook or worksheet.
  2. Select the example in the Help topic.

    Note Do not select the row or column headers.

    selecting an example from helpSelecting an example from Help

  3. Press CTRL+C.
  4. In the worksheet, select cell A1, and press CTRL+V.
  5. To switch between viewing the results and viewing the formulas that return the results, press CTRL+` (grave accent), or on the Formulas tab, in the Formula Auditing group, click the Show Formulas button.
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A B
Data Data
3 4
5 2
3 4
5 6
4 7
Formula Description (Result)
=LARGE(A2:B6,3) 3rd largest number in the numbers above (5)
=LARGE(A2:B6,7) 7th largest number in the numbers above (4)


See also: