Generally accepted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Generally accepted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to ideas, practices, or beliefs that are widely recognized and endorsed by a majority within a particular field or context. Example: "The generally accepted theory in physics is that energy cannot be created or destroyed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Generally accepted accounting principles are an art, not a science.

Forbes

Fake I.D.s are generally accepted.

The New Yorker

Only a few facts are generally accepted.

The Economist

This grouping has not been generally accepted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Not in the generally accepted sense….

The New Yorker

The principle of independence is generally accepted.

The Economist

Why is catastrophic geology not generally accepted?

The New York Times

"That is the generally accepted view".

The Guardian - Film

The tactic violates generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP.

The New York Times

Qwest says it has adhered to generally accepted accounting principles.

The New York Times

Instead, he sketched out the three generally accepted options.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "generally accepted" to indicate broad consensus or widespread agreement on a principle, method, or idea within a specific field or context.

Common error

Avoid using "generally accepted" when the concept is only accepted within a niche group or has known significant opposition. Be sure to provide context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally accepted" functions as a modifier, specifically an adjective phrase, that describes a noun. It indicates that the noun it modifies has reached a level of broad agreement or common understanding within a specific community or field. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase indicates something is established or agreed upon.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Unknown/unmatched sources

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "generally accepted" is a versatile modifier used to indicate broad agreement or common understanding, as highlighted by Ludwig. It functions as an adjective phrase, lending credibility and authority to statements across diverse fields. While commonly found in news, science, and business contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral to formal tone. When using "generally accepted", it's crucial to ensure the concept truly holds widespread acceptance within the specific community to avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives like "widely recognized" or "commonly acknowledged" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Widely recognized

Focuses on recognition by many, rather than explicit acceptance.

Commonly acknowledged

Emphasizes acknowledgment, suggesting a shared understanding that may not be formally accepted.

Universally acknowledged

Implies a higher degree of acceptance, suggesting nearly everyone agrees.

Broadly endorsed

Highlights active support and approval by a large group.

Predominantly agreed upon

Indicates that the majority is in agreement.

Routinely practiced

Implies a standard procedure or custom that is commonly followed.

Ordinarily performed

Describes actions taken out as a rule and without special circumstances.

Standardly implemented

Focuses on implementation according to established standards.

Typically applied

Refers to common application in specific situations.

Conventionally used

Indicates established customs or traditions.

FAQs

How can I use "generally accepted" in a sentence?

You can use "generally accepted" to describe a principle, standard, or belief that is widely agreed upon within a specific field. For example, "It is "widely recognized" that hand washing is essential for preventing the spread of germs".

What are some alternatives to "generally accepted"?

Alternatives include "widely recognized", "commonly acknowledged", or "universally acknowledged", depending on the degree of agreement you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify who generally accepts something?

While not always necessary, specifying the group or field that generally accepts something can provide important context and credibility. For example, "According to dentists the "best way to" brush your teeth is to use small circular movements".

What's the difference between "generally accepted" and "widely used"?

"Generally accepted" implies agreement or approval, while "widely used" simply means something is commonly employed, regardless of whether it's universally approved. For example, "credit cards" are "routinely practiced".