American English
/ˈʤɛn.ɹl̩/
2 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
Describing the main parts of something without many small details.
“General” is often pronounced with two syllables, /ˈʤɛn.ɹl̩/, and it also has a common three-syllable form, /ˈʤɛ.nɚ.l̩/. You may hear either form in American English.
Describing the main parts of something without many small details.
The report gives a general idea of the plan.
I only need some general information.
In English, general usually comes before the noun: general information, not information general.
general idea · general information · general advice · general overview
general + noun
a general idea of + noun
For many people or for ordinary use, rather than for one special group or purpose.
The museum is open to the general public.
She won the general election.
general public · general election · general agreement · general rule
general + noun
be + general throughout + place or group
A very high-ranking military officer who leads a large group of soldiers.
The general spoke to the soldiers.
She became a general after many years in the Army.
four-star general · retired general · commanding general
a/the general + verb
a general in + organization
When considering most cases or the whole situation.
In general, the train is on time.
Ordinary people as a whole.
The museum is free for the general public.
Usually; in most situations.
As a general rule, I avoid driving at night.