(noun, adjective, verb)


1. applying to all or most members of a category or group

- the general public

- general assistance

- a general rule

Similar word(s): comprehensive, indiscriminate, broad, unspecific, generic, gross, overall, pandemic, universal, widespread, imprecise, unspecialised, unspecialized

2. not specialized or limited to one class of things

- general studies

- general knowledge

Similar word(s): undiversified

3. prevailing among and common to the general public

- the general discontent

Similar word(s): common

4. affecting the entire body

- a general anesthetic

- general symptoms

Similar word(s): systemic

5. somewhat indefinite

- bearing a general resemblance to the original

- a general description of the merchandise

Similar word(s): imprecise

6. of worldwide scope or applicability

Similar word(s): comprehensive, cosmopolitan, ecumenical, oecumenical, universal, worldwide


1. a general officer of the highest rank

Definition categories: person

2. the head of a religious order or congregation

Definition categories: person, chief, head

3. a fact about the whole (as opposed to particular)

- he discussed the general but neglected the particular

Definition categories: thought, fact

Sentences with general as a noun:

- We have dealt with the generals; now let us turn to the particulars.

- Hannibal was one of the greatest generals of the ancient world.


1. command as a general

- We are generaled by an incompetent!

Definition categories: communication, command