Part of Speech

Adverb

Pronunciation

/ˈdʒɛnərəli/

Definitions

1. In most cases; typically.

2. Usually or commonly, but not always.

3. In a general manner; not specifically.

Usage Examples

• Generally, people prefer a balanced diet.
• She generally arrives on time for meetings.

Etymology

The word "generally" comes from the Middle English "generali," derived from Old French "generale" and ultimately from Latin "generalis," meaning "pertaining to a whole class or kind." The adverbial form arose in the late 14th century.

Synonyms

• Typically
• Usually
• Commonly
• Ordinarily

Antonyms

• Uncommonly
• Seldom
• Rarely
• Infrequently

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "generally" is largely consistent across English dialects, though in some regional accents, the stress on syllables may differ slightly, particularly in faster speech.

Historical Usage

The word "generally" has been in use since the 14th century, evolving from the Latin word "generalis." It was initially used to mean "in a general sense," and has since become a staple of everyday English, applied broadly in both spoken and written forms.

Cultural Nuances

In cultures that prioritize detailed thinking and precision, such as in scientific and legal communities, the term "generally" may be used cautiously to indicate approximations or common cases, often to avoid overgeneralizing. In contrast, in informal conversation, "generally" is more freely used to convey typical or expected scenarios.

More Information

“Generally” serves as a key adverb in English used to express typicality or what is commonly true. It is crucial in both casual conversation and formal writing, helping to convey information about regularity or predictability while acknowledging possible exceptions.