Pronunciation

/ˈdʒenrəli/

Definitions

• Adverb: In most cases; usually; for the most part. It often indicates that something is true or typical, although there may be exceptions. For example: “Generally speaking, it’s best to arrive on time.”

  Example Sentence: “I generally wake up early in the morning.”

• Adjective: Pertaining to or characteristic of the greater part; widespread; universal. For example: “A generally accepted theory.”

  Example Sentence: “There was a generally positive response to the new policy.”

Phrases

• “In general”: As a rule; typically; usually. For example: “In general, people like to feel appreciated.”
• “As a general rule”: Most of the time; usually with only occasional exceptions. For example: “As a general rule, we don’t allow pets in the office.”
• “Generally speaking”: Broadly or overall considering something without going into details or specifics. For example: “Generally speaking, exercise improves health.”

Example Sentences

• Adverb: “The weather in this region is generally mild throughout the year.”
• Adjective: “His behavior was quite unusual; it wasn’t his generally amiable demeanor.”

Synonyms

• Typically
• Usually
• Ordinarily
• Customarily
• Frequently
• Commonly
• Often
• Normally
• Generally Accepted
• Universally Acknowledged