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

• commonly
• natch [slang]
• naturally
• normally
• ordinarily
• typically
• usually

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

Possible Side Effects Cinnamon is generally well-tolerated and safe for most people when consumed in regular amounts in food. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 4 June 2025

Luckily, today’s smartphones are ideal for capturing images of even faint aurora, which generally look white to the naked eye. —Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025

However, studies have found that this species is generally not the most efficient host for the pathogen that causes the disease, according to Adams, who’s also a disease ecologist. —Adriana Pérez, Chicago Tribune, 4 June 2025

Formula regulations in the U.S. and Europe, including requirements for nutrients and testing, differ somewhat, but are generally similar, Abrams said. —Arkansas Online, 4 June 2025

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