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 .
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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.
That was my senior year, and I was over high school in general, so that carried through to the show and my appearance.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026
The gold coin was never in general circulation, with fewer than 300 produced in 1839 to commemorate the beginning of Queen Victoria's reign.
From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026
The 2021 vintage, in general, has been underperforming.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026
Analysts say the cease-fire deal has ushered in a better market backdrop for riskier plays in general.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026
I notice his use of she, acknowledging that I'm not merely curious about procedure in general but about one person in particular.
From "Girl in the Blue Coat" by Monica Hesse
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.
