Reading Theme:
General: Definition, Common Uses & Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：broadly applicable (general)
general
/ˈdʒen(ə)rəl/
adj.
Describing something that is true for most people, places, or situations, not just specific ones.
broadly applicable
➕
/ˈbrɔːdli ˈæplɪkəb(ə)l/
adj.
Referring to what is common, usual, or true for a whole group or category, rather than for particular individuals or instances.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'generalis', from 'genus' (kind, class). Meaning 'pertaining to a whole kind'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of a 'general' in the army who commands all troops, not just one unit. Similarly, the adjective covers the whole, not just parts.
📖 Example
Before starting the detailed science project, the teacher gave a general introduction to the topic.
The introductory remarks covered the foundational concepts that apply to everyone learning the topic.
🔗 Collocations
general public – ordinary people in society, not specialists
general knowledge – information known by most people, not specialized facts
in general terms – without discussing details or specifics
🔄 Synonyms
common (adj.) – found or happening often in many places
universal (adj.) – true or applicable in all cases
widespread (adj.) – existing or happening over a large area or among many people
🚫 Antonyms
specific (adj.) – relating to one particular thing, not general
particular (adj.) – used to single out an individual item
unique (adj.) – being the only one of its kind
🌱 Derivatives
generally (adv.) – in most cases; usually
generalize (v.) – to make a broad statement based on limited facts
📖 Cultural Story
Historically, 'general' designated a military rank commanding an entire army. This reflects its core idea of wholeness versus specifics. In modern business, a 'general manager' oversees entire operations.
Meaning 2：not detailed (general)
general
/ˈdʒen(ə)rəl/
adj.
Not detailed or specific; giving a rough idea or the usual situation without going into details.
not detailed
➕
/nɒt ˈdiːteɪld/
adj.
Lacking specificity or detail; presenting the main features or an overall idea without fine points.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The company's annual report provides only a general overview of its performance, not specific sales figures for each region.
The report gives a high-level summary of how the company did, avoiding granular data breakdowns.
🔗 Collocations
general idea – a basic understanding without precise details
general impression – a vague or overall feeling about something
in a general sense – when considered in a broad, non-specific way
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
generality (n.) – a statement that is general and not specific
Wordbook
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