General
ˈdʒɛnərəl
Definitions
4 meaningsRelating to all or most things, people, or situations.
ˈdʒɛnərəl
Relating to all or most members of a group or category; widespread.
The general feeling was one of optimism.
💡 Simply: Like when you talk about something that applies to almost everyone. For example, a general statement about the weather means it applies to most of the area, not just one small spot.
👶 For kids: Something that is for everyone or most things, like a general rule.
More Examples
This is a general summary of the topic.
The general rule is that you should arrive on time.
How It's Used
"The general public was concerned about the new law."
"The general principles of physics apply to all objects."
Not detailed or precise.
ˈdʒɛnərəl
Not specific; vague or inexact.
She provided a general overview of the project.
💡 Simply: When something is kind of fuzzy and not very specific. Like a general description of your vacation instead of every tiny detail.
👶 For kids: When something is not very specific and can mean different things.
More Examples
The instructions were too general; I needed more detail.
He offered a general answer to my question.
How It's Used
"He gave me a general idea of his plan."
"The instructions were too general to be helpful."
A high-ranking officer in the military.
ˈdʒɛnərəl
A high-ranking military officer.
The general commanded the troops to advance.
💡 Simply: In the army, a general is like the boss who gives the orders to the other soldiers.
👶 For kids: A boss in the army.
More Examples
He was promoted to the rank of general.
The general is responsible for the strategic planning.
How It's Used
"The general gave the order to attack."
"General Patton was a famous figure in World War II."
The highest-ranking officer.
ˈdʒɛnərəl
An officer of the highest rank (usually a military rank).
The general oversaw the entire operation.
💡 Simply: The highest leader in the military.
👶 For kids: The boss of all the army bosses.
More Examples
The president met with the general to discuss strategy.
A four-star general is a high-ranking officer.
How It's Used
"The five-star general is at the highest rank."
Idioms & expressions
in general
As a whole; usually; commonly.
"In general, people like to be treated with respect."
From Middle English *general*, from Old French *general* (“common, universal, general”), and directly from Latin *generālis* (“belonging to a whole class, universal, general”), from *genus* (“race, kind, gender, class”).
The word 'general' has been used since the 13th century, initially referring to something widespread or universal.
Memory tip
Think of a 'general' overview – it's not specific, but covers everything.
Word Origin
"belonging to a whole class, universal"