in general
7 synonyms and 2 antonyms for in general, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adverb — Usually or in most cases, allowing for exceptions.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
on the whole
as a rule
by and large
Synonyms by Meaning
1. adverb
Usually or in most cases, allowing for exceptions.
“In general, the trains run on time.”
Opposites
How to use in general
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
in general terms
people in general
in general, however
Neutral; suitable for any register.
Etymology
Passed down from Middle English in general.
Full origin of in general →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between in general and generally?
They mean the same thing, but the position differs: generally sits comfortably before the verb (people generally agree), while in general prefers the start or end of the clause (in general, people agree). In general can also follow a noun to mean as a whole, as in society in general.
Is in general the same as usually?
Nearly. Usually is strictly about frequency, while in general can also mean broadly speaking or overall, which is about scope rather than how often.
Do you need a comma after in general?
Yes when it opens a sentence: In general, this works well. Inside the sentence it normally takes no commas.
