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

Since returning to the mound in 2024, Buehler’s velocity has most often been closer to the low 90s, and his command has been generally missing. —Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Mar. 2026

The book’s subtitle is, after all, How to Improve Your Sentences, not your plot, publishing prospects, or even writing more generally. —Jasna Hodžić, Big Think, 10 Mar. 2026

Federal law generally prohibits felons from possessing guns. —Nick Penzenstadler, USA Today, 10 Mar. 2026

New Directors/New Films is now in its 55th year of celebrating up-and-coming filmmakers with something generally new to say. —Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 10 Mar. 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