in general

Meaning

This expression is used to describe a broad truth, a common habit, or an overall situation rather than specific details. It is similar to saying 'usually', 'mostly', or 'as a whole'. You can place it at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence to show you are making a generalization.

Examples

• In general, I prefer public transit because parking in the city is a nightmare.

  In general, I prefer public transit because parking in the city is a nightmare.

• I think the presentation went really well in general, despite a few technical issues.

  I think the presentation went really well in general, despite a few technical issues.

• Do you think people in general are becoming more conscious of their health?

  Do you think people in general are becoming more conscious of their health?

• In general, the weather here is quite mild, but it does rain a lot in November.

  In general, the weather here is quite mild, but it does rain a lot in November.

• The movie was a bit slow at the start, but in general, it was highly entertaining.

  The movie was a bit slow at the start, but in general, it was highly entertaining.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ In generally, I wake up early on weekdays.

  ✓ In general, I wake up early on weekdays.

  Learners often confuse the adverb 'generally' with the prepositional phrase 'in general'. Use either 'generally' on its own or 'in general', but do not combine them.

• ✗ On general, the food at that restaurant is excellent.

  ✓ In general, the food at that restaurant is excellent.

  Prepositions are fixed in English collocations. The correct phrase is always 'in general', never 'on general' or 'at general'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• ___, the project was a success, even though we missed the first deadline.

  💡 Broadly speaking or as a whole

  Show answer

  In general

• I don't like sweet drinks ___, but I do enjoy a glass of lemonade on a hot day.

  💡 Usually or mostly

  Show answer

  in general

• ___, younger generations are more comfortable using new technology.

  💡 Typically

  Show answer

  In general