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

That will change sooner than later, although NBA teams, much like college students, generally need a deadline to get some work done. —Eric Koreen, New York Times, 5 Jan. 2026

Side effects were generally mild and short-term, but included skin irritations and headaches. —New Atlas, 4 Jan. 2026

How To Do It Gentle on skin but generally effective for hours-long wear, clear nail polish will keep your necklace in place. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 4 Jan. 2026

Propane tanks generally need to be re-certified or replaced every 10 years. —Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 4 Jan. 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