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

Supporters have argued that classic and collectible cars are generally driven far less than daily-use vehicles and make up a small share of California vehicles. — Cecilio Padilla, CBS News, 16 Sep. 2026

Josh Acheampong is fighting for minutes somewhere in the right half of Alonso’s defence, and has generally done well with the opportunities he’s been given. — Liam Twomey, New York Times, 16 Sep. 2026

Whole-milk varieties contain more calories and fat – about 140 calories and 8 grams of fat per cup – while skim, 1% and 2% varieties generally contain less. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 16 Sep. 2026

However, interest on unpaid tax generally accrues from the regular April federal return deadline. — Sharon Epperson, CNBC, 16 Sep. 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