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

The governor said at the time that the emergency regulations were needed to protect children from intoxicating hemp products, which are generally considered legal under the federal 2018 Farm Bill. —A.j. Herrington, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025

While fast-casual restaurants don't have a wait staff, servers generally carry food to tables. —John Magsam, Arkansas Online, 16 June 2025

Shorter rallies, points generally ended by explosive shots, more aces. —Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 16 June 2025

What To Know It is generally recommended to avoid drinking coffee in hot weather due to its diuretic effect, which can lead to dehydration. —Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 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