generally

adverb

gen·​er·​al·​ly ˈjen-rə-lē 

ˈje-nə-, 

ˈje-nər-lē

: in a general manner: such as

a

: in disregard of specific instances and with regard to an overall picture

generally speaking

b

: as a rule : usually

Synonyms of generally

• usually
• normally
• typically

Examples of generally in a Sentence

He talked generally about his plans.

I had a generally good day.

It generally takes about a month for the shipment to arrive.

When stocks are up, bonds are generally down.

This town is generally regarded as a good place to raise kids.

Recent Examples on the Web

Proving that a competitor has used proprietary manufacturing techniques can also be difficult, as outsiders generally see only the final product, according to Chan. — Jenny Lee, CNBC, 5 Nov. 2026

How to Cut Back Catmint Catmint is generally hardy and can tolerate substantial amounts of pruning. — Abby Monteil, The Spruce, 4 Nov. 2026

The Polish, a garlicky smoked beef and pork link, is generally credited to the stand’s namesake, Macedonian immigrant Jimmy Stefanovic, who took over his aunt and uncle’s stand in 1939. — Amy Cavanaugh, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Nov. 2026

Both men have occupied seats that have generally been safe for Republicans even since the 2021 remap. — CBS News, 4 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing generally

• generally speaking

Kids Definition

generally

adverb

gen·​er·​al·​ly ˈjen-(ə-)rə-lē 

ˈjen-ər-lē

1

: for the most part

generally speaking

2

: as a rule : usually