Generally and specifically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Generally and specifically" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to address a topic in both broad and detailed terms. Example: "In discussing climate change, we need to consider the issue generally and specifically, examining both global trends and local impacts."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Various themes emerged and included the generation of ideas for the Child in Mind project generally and specifically in the development of training materials.

BMC Medical Education

However, most first generation Black African women, some second generation Black African women and first generation Black Caribbean women, appeared less receptive towards media/health campaigns about cancer generally and specifically breast awareness, before they were diagnosed.

BMJ Open

Knepper spoke disparagingly of women generally, and specifically of the National Organization for Women after it criticized him.

The New York Times - Sports

Such an argument would be used to question Mr. Louima's account generally, and specifically to question whether Mr. Schwarz -- or perhaps any second officer -- was involved.

The New York Times

The term is applied both generally and specifically, with the former use referring to virtually any ruglike fabric that does not have pile.

Britannica

The Namibia subseries pertains to the Lawyers Committee and the Southern Africa Project's work in Namibia, both generally and specifically through the Commission on Independence for Namibia.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

They are generally insensitive and specifically insulting to our past and current African-American student-athletes".

The New York Times - Sports

Cohen's later works increasingly emphasized generally religious and specifically Judaic elements.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These ideas are generally applicable and specifically applicable to executive onboarding into new roles.

Forbes

Thus, the effects of predisposing risk factors might be attenuated on diets that are generally healthy and specifically low in glycemic load".

Vice

At these regions, histones are generally hypoacetylated and specifically methylated on H3K9 (H3K9me).

EMBO Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "generally and specifically" to ensure clarity when discussing both the overarching aspects and the detailed components of a topic. It demonstrates a comprehensive understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "generally and specifically" when the context already implies both broad and detailed considerations. Redundancy can weaken your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally and specifically" functions as an adjunct, modifying a verb or clause by providing additional information about the scope of consideration. As Ludwig AI indicates, it serves to clarify that a topic is being addressed from both a broad and detailed perspective.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

30%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "generally and specifically" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate that a topic is being addressed from both a broad and detailed perspective. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid phrase in written English. It functions as an adjunct, adding information about the scope of consideration. Its communicative purpose is to emphasize a comprehensive approach, suitable for neutral and formal registers. The phrase is most frequently found in scientific, news and media, and academic contexts. When using the phrase, it's important to avoid redundancy and ensure the context warrants the explicit mention of both general and specific aspects. Alternatives include "in general and in detail" or "broadly and particularly". While quite common, it is important to make sure that the usage is contextually relevant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In general and in detail

Replaces the original wording with more common synonyms for both "generally" and "specifically".

Broadly and particularly

Substitutes "generally" with "broadly" and "specifically" with "particularly", maintaining a similar level of formality.

On the whole and in particular

Uses "on the whole" to convey a general sense and "in particular" to narrow down to specifics.

In a general and detailed manner

Rephrases the concept using "manner" to add emphasis on the way something is approached.

From a broad to a narrow perspective

Emphasizes the shift from a wide-angle view to a focused one.

In a comprehensive and targeted way

Highlights the thoroughness and precision of the approach.

Considering the big picture and the specifics

Offers a more descriptive and less formal alternative.

Looking at both the forest and the trees

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey the contrast between the overall view and the individual details.

In both a global and granular sense

Employs "global" and "granular" to represent the macro and micro aspects.

Addressing both the overview and the particulars

Focuses on the act of addressing both the general summary and the specific details.

FAQs

How can I use "generally and specifically" in a sentence?

You can use "generally and specifically" to indicate you are addressing both the broad aspects and particular details of a topic. For example, "The report examines the impact of the policy "generally and specifically" on the local economy".

What are some alternatives to "generally and specifically"?

Some alternatives to "generally and specifically" include "in general and in detail", "broadly and particularly", or "on the whole and in particular".

Is it redundant to use "generally and specifically" in some contexts?

Yes, using "generally and specifically" can be redundant if the context already implies that both broad and detailed aspects are being considered. In such cases, consider using a simpler phrase or omitting it entirely.

What's the difference between "generally and specifically" and "in general and in particular"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "generally and specifically" may be perceived as slightly more formal than "in general and in particular". Choose the phrase that best fits the tone of your writing.