in general
1. Referring to an entire class or category of something, rather than a specific example. Cats in general are easier to take care of than dogs, but mine seems to be very high maintenance. I don't dislike romantic comedies in general, but I just haven't seen a lot of good ones. A: "SVUs in general are too big for me to drive." B: "Well, yeah, because you learned to drive in a little hatchback."
2. Typically; for the most part; generally. In general, my employees work hard. There are just a few who give me headaches every once in a while. It's a really cute town, and I like it in general, it's just so far from all of my friends in the city. In general, I think the governor's speech is a bunch of nonsense, but there is some truth in what he said about the need for lower taxes.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
in general
referring to the entire class being discussed; speaking of the entire range of possibilities; in most situations or circumstances. I like vegetables in general, but not beets. In general, I prefer a hotel room on a lower floor, but will take a higher room if it's special.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
in general
1. 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.
2. 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]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
in ˈgeneral
in most cases; usually: The money is due to come on the first of every month; in general it arrives punctually, but at holiday times it’s sometimes late. OPPOSITE: in particularFarlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
in general
Generally.
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.