Words / B1

JENR-uh-l/ˈdʒenrəl/

General means not detailed, or relating to most people or things rather than one: a general idea; general knowledge; in general. Specific / particular is the opposite. Overall is close when you mean the whole picture. Generally is the adverb. As a noun, a general is a senior army officer — a different meaning. General public means ordinary people. Do not write “generals speaking” — use generally speaking.

Meaning

Not detailed; relating to most people or things, not one particular one.

Examples

• “The general idea of the plan is clear.”
• “The leaflet is for the general public, not specialists.”
• “In general, trains are more reliable than buses here.”

Good to know

in general. a general idea / knowledge. Opposite: specific. Adverb: generally. Ordinary people: the general public.

Near in meaning

overall

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