generally

adverb

gen·​er·​al·​ly ˈjen-rə-lē How to pronounce generally (audio)
ˈje-nə-, 
ˈje-nər-lē
Synonyms of generallynext
: 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

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Wealthier households may benefit from higher returns on savings and are generally better able to absorb larger monthly payments. — Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 3 Sep. 2026 Institutional shares Institutional shares, sometimes labeled Class I or Y, are generally aimed at investors with deep pockets, such as institutions that are able to meet high investment minimums. — Debbie Carlson, Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 Sep. 2026 Under Ohio law, a postconviction petition must generally be filed within 365 days after the trial transcript is filed in the court of appeals. — Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 2 Sep. 2026 As her folks are in their eighties, Mary is now generally captaining the ship that is the Berry Center. — Literary Hub, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for generally

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of generally was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing generally

Browse Nearby Words

general listing
generally
generally speaking
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Cite this Entry

“Generally.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/generally. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

generally

adverb
gen·​er·​al·​ly ˈjen-(ə-)rə-lē How to pronounce generally (audio)
ˈjen-ər-lē
1
: for the most part
generally speaking
2
: as a rule : usually
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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