generally
Americanadverb
-
usually; commonly; ordinarily.
He generally comes home at noon.
- Antonyms:
- seldom
-
with respect to the larger part; for the most part.
a generally accurate interpretation of the facts.
-
without reference to or disregarding particular persons, things, situations, etc., that may be an exception.
generally speaking.
adverb
-
usually; as a rule
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commonly or widely
-
without reference to specific details or facts; broadly
Synonym Usage
See often.
Etymology
Origin of generally
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.
Vocabulary lists containing generally
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A few reminders about the rules of survivor benefits: A surviving spouse who has reached FRA can generally receive up to 100% of their deceased spouse’s benefit.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 16, 2026
Mr. Jay reports both sides of the controversy: Essentially, the military suspects a real attack, while the medical establishment generally diagnoses psychogenic illness, one with no physical cause.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 16, 2026
“She backed our contracts and our budgets — she has generally supported public safety.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 16, 2026
Groundwater levels are generally declining following the prolonged dry weather.
From BBC ● Oct. 15, 2026
But coyotes are generally viewed as bad guys.
From "Wayward Creatures" by Dayna Lorentz
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Get a wordDefinitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
