general

gen|er|al1 [ `dʒen(ə)rəl ] adjective ***

▸ 1 not specific/detailed

▸ 2 relevant to most cases

▸ 3 true of whole of something

▸ 4 dealing with all of something

▸ 5 responsible for whole

▸ + PHRASES

1. ) not specific, exact, or detailed:

Could you just give us a general description of the work you do?

Her predictions are so general that they could apply to anybody.

in general terms: We are prepared to discuss the deal in general terms, but the details are confidential.

general idea: I'm probably not making myself very clear, but you get the general idea.

2. ) true for most people, things, or situations, or affecting most of them:

There was general agreement that the plan was too expensive.

The fighting could escalate into a more general war.

Family planning has now become general practice.

It's in the general interest that we should have a well-run health service.

as a general rule: As a general rule, shorter sentences are easier to understand.

3. ) only before noun used for describing the whole of something, without considering the details:

I get the general impression that they aren't very happy.

He has this general attitude of superiority toward his colleagues.

Your general physical condition seems remarkably good.

4. ) dealing with all areas of a subject or activity, rather than concentrating on a particular area:

a good general introduction to linguistics

the general reader/viewer (=someone who is not an expert): science programs that are accessible to the general viewer

general contractor/insurer: The building and plumbing work will be done by a general contractor.

5. ) used, especially in job titles, for saying that someone is responsible for the whole of something:

general manager/secretary: Peter Klimt is the new European general manager.

=> SECRETARY-GENERAL

the general direction/area/location of something

an area near or toward something, though perhaps not at that exact place:

We were heading in the general direction of the ocean.

in general

1. ) in most situations or for most people:

In general, my view is that politicians who break the law should be punished.

I don't think people in general give much thought to the environment.

2. ) as a whole, without giving details:

In general, the standard of your work is very high.

general

gen|er|al 2 [ `dʒen(ə)rəl ] noun count **

an officer of high rank in the army, air force, or marines