adjective
general
JEN-rul/ˈdʒenrəl/
Applying broadly rather than to particular cases or details.
Raised hands show general agreement among neighbors at the gathering.
Etymology
Built on genus, “kind” or “class,” general describes what relates to a whole class. That class-wide scope explains its use for what applies broadly, rather than to particular people, cases, or details.
In context
handsaws is a general term and can be used to describe many different types of saws
More examples
- The guide offers general advice rather than detailed instructions.
- As a general rule, these plants need plenty of sunlight.
- She gives a general overview before explaining each step.
Forms
general
generally adverb — In most cases or broad terms.
generalization noun — A broad statement drawn from specific cases.