generally

American  

[jen-er-uh-lee] / ˈdʒɛn ər ə li /

adverb

1. usually; commonly; ordinarily.

   He generally comes home at noon.

   Antonyms:

   seldom

2. with respect to the larger part; for the most part.

   a generally accurate interpretation of the facts.

3. without reference to or disregarding particular persons, things, situations, etc., that may be an exception.

   generally speaking.

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generally British  

/ ˈdʒɛnrəlɪ /

adverb

1. usually; as a rule

2. commonly or widely

3. without reference to specific details or facts; broadly

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Related Words

See often.

Etymology

Origin of generally

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English; general + -ly

Explanation

Generally means "usually" or "broadly." If something is generally true, it is usually true. If you generally dislike birthday celebrations, don’t be mad when no one throws you a party. If something is right generally, then it's right most of the time, though perhaps not in every case. Generally, dogs are more playful than cats. Generally, young people are healthier than old people. Generally, people like music. This word is handy when you need to say something that is true for most, but not all, people or things. This word helps you to generalize.

Example Sentences

But Home Office statisticians have noted a steep rise in asylum claims more generally from Pakistani nationals, as well as migrants from Bangladesh and India, on study or work visas in recent years.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

The Madison deal will be a test of investor demand for a roll-up, since such companies generally are valued at a discount to companies that primarily grow internally.

From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026

Alternatively, withdrawing from retirement accounts would generally be taxed as ordinary income, potentially at higher marginal rates depending on your tax bracket.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 15, 2026

And it dealt generally with the problem of succession and stability and continuity in government.

From Slate • Apr. 15, 2026

The twins weren’t like Henry; if they were home, they would generally answer the phone.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt

Related Words

• broadly
• commonly
• customarily
• largely
• mostly
• normally
• ordinarily
• publicly
• roughly
• typically
• universally
• usually
• widely