in general
Idioms-
Referring to a group of persons or a subject as a whole, as opposed to particular ones. For example, I am speaking about contracts in general , or Girls in general mature at a younger age than boys . [Late 1300s] For an antonym, see in particular .
-
For the most part; commonly, usually. For example, In general the children behaved very well , or Our winters are quite mild in general . [Early 1700s]
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.
“Parents in general didn’t know what the differences are between a Class 2 or Class 3,” said Sgt.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026
Inflation in general has risen as a result of high fuel costs and Victor explained that there are signs of a broader economic slowdown.
From Salon • Jun. 10, 2026
He welcomes the diversity in ages and backgrounds, saying it "just enriches the crew in general."
From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026
Yet age-indexed mortality rates are used to estimate length of life in general, which affects everything from pension and social-security payments to population predictions and insurance rates.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026
I’d cut and folded squares of fabric for the quilting class and tried to push away the thought of leaving, the box of letters under my bed, and Momma in general.
From "Hope Springs" by Jaime Berry
Definitions 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.
