General usage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "General usage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the common or typical way something is used or understood in a particular context. Example: "In general usage, the term 'sustainability' refers to practices that do not deplete resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

General language

Technical writing

Academic research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

General usage data indicate that overall replacement of former physical usage is happening in only one area - journals.

University of Chicago

Office Supplies and General Roll-out/Set-up - This includes all forms of general usage items like staplers for the waiter station, host station, kitchen and office.

Bplans

Sony and others have devices that last in excess of two days with general usage.

The Guardian - Tech

What is introduced today for terrorism almost invariably enters general usage shortly thereafter.

The Guardian

This film single-handedly restored the word "pomade" to general usage.

The Guardian - Film

Diplolingo is now wresting the phrase back from the general usage.

The New York Times - Magazine

But "so" is the weasel word of the moment, spreading into general usage.

The Guardian - Opinion

In general usage the word "paranoia" means an undue sense of suspicion.

The Guardian - Opinion

Moreover, it is not in common or general usage outside of the railroad world.

Cornell University

In general usage the name continental divide is applied to the main water parting in any continent.

Britannica

In general usage, particularly in engineering, the term ferromagnetic is frequently applied to any material that is appreciably magnetic.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical writing, specify "general usage" to differentiate from specialized or technical applications.

Common error

Avoid assuming that the "general usage" of a term applies universally. Always consider the specific context and whether a more precise definition is required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general usage" functions as a noun phrase that describes the common or typical way in which something is used, understood, or interpreted. Ludwig AI confirms this is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

26%

Academia

23%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Science

28%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "general usage" is a versatile phrase used to denote the common or typical way something is used or understood. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and commonly used in written English. Its neutral register allows for application across various contexts, from academic discussions to news reporting. While alternatives like "standard usage" or "common practice" exist, "general usage" effectively conveys the idea of widespread understanding. When using this phrase, ensure clarity and consider whether specialized definitions may also be relevant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Standard usage

Highlights adherence to accepted norms and conventions in how something is used.

Common practice

Emphasizes the aspect of widespread action or behavior, rather than understanding or definition.

Conventional use

Stresses traditional and established methods of employing something.

Accepted interpretation

Focuses on the common understanding or meaning attributed to something.

Usual manner

Indicates the typical or expected way in which something is done or used.

Typical application

Focuses on the standard or expected way something is employed or utilized.

Ordinary employment

Emphasizes the routine or everyday way something is used.

Widespread application

Indicates that something is used extensively across different areas or contexts.

Established norm

Highlights a standard or pattern that is widely recognized and followed.

Prevailing custom

Refers to a dominant or established tradition that is widely observed.

FAQs

How can I use "general usage" in a sentence?

You can use "general usage" to describe how a term is commonly understood. For example, "In "general usage", the word 'theory' implies an idea or belief."

What's an alternative to the phrase "general usage"?

Alternatives include "common practice", "standard usage", or "typical application" depending on the context.

Is "general usage" formal or informal?

"General usage" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, as it simply describes the common way something is used or understood. The formality depends more on the surrounding language.

How does "general usage" differ from technical usage?

"General usage" refers to the common understanding, while technical usage refers to a specific meaning within a particular field. It's important to clarify which "meaning" is relevant in a given context.