I generally agree

USAGE SUMMARY

"I generally agree" is correct and is often used in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that you generally support a certain idea or opinion, but not necessarily approve of every aspect of it. For example: "I generally agree that we should reduce our emissions, but I'm not sure if the proposed plan is the best way to do it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Despite above objections to Amy Chua's parenting style, I generally agree with her conclusions.

The New Yorker

Fact-based management is lauded as the best way to run any organization, and I generally agree.

Harvard Business Review

Michael Schwartz, Olney, Md.: I generally agree with your assessment of the overreaction to allowing a U.A.E.

The New York Times

While I generally agree with Professor Thelin's argument, I must take issue with the notion that other schools are subsidized by the 1 percent.

The New York Times

She's not only political, although she does do that, she ranges all over culture and she always has an interesting perspective… that I generally agree with!

The Guardian - Arts

Keith Orford, Hingham, Mass.: Although I generally agree with your analysis of a sea change in the mood or orientation of the country toward a more civic-minded ethos, I wouldn't assume that the multicultural movement was completely ineffectual.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

As an examiner, I would generally agree that it's excellent training.

The Guardian

I do generally agree with Gates here, that the iPad is just short of being all that it can be, but not for the reasons he lists here.

TechCrunch

And neighbors generally agree.

The New York Times

Other critics generally agree.

The Guardian - Books

Somewhat surprisingly, state officials generally agree.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "I generally agree" with a 'with' phrase to clarify what you agree with: 'I generally agree with your assessment'.

Common error

Avoid using "I generally agree" when you fully and unequivocally agree. Opt for stronger phrases like "I completely agree" or "I fully support" to convey complete alignment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I generally agree" functions as a declarative statement expressing a qualified agreement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It serves to communicate a speaker's stance on a particular topic, indicating support while subtly acknowledging potential reservations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I generally agree" is a versatile expression used to convey qualified agreement, balancing support with the acknowledgment of potential reservations. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in various contexts. Analysis of example sentences reveals that it's frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific discussions, indicating a register that is neutral and widely applicable. While authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian employ it, understanding its nuances and avoiding overstatement are key to effective communication. Alternatives such as "I largely agree" or "I'm inclined to agree" offer subtle variations in emphasis, allowing for precise expression of one's stance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I largely agree

This alternative is very similar in meaning, suggesting agreement on most points.

I mostly agree

This alternative suggests a slight reservation or qualification in the agreement.

I'm mostly in agreement

This alternative combines "mostly" with "in agreement", suggesting agreement on the majority of points.

I tend to agree

This alternative indicates a leaning towards agreement, but with some uncertainty.

I am in agreement

This alternative is a more formal and emphatic way of expressing agreement.

I'm inclined to agree

This alternative suggests a predisposition to agree, but allows for the possibility of disagreement.

I find myself in agreement

This alternative is a more reflective and slightly more formal way of expressing agreement.

I concur

This alternative is more formal and direct, indicating complete agreement.

My view is similar

This alternative focuses on a shared perspective rather than direct agreement.

I share that opinion

This alternative emphasizes shared belief or perspective.

FAQs

What does "I generally agree" mean?

It means you mostly agree with something but might have some minor reservations or points of disagreement. It indicates a level of agreement that isn't absolute.

What can I say instead of "I generally agree"?

You can use alternatives like "I largely agree", "I mostly agree", or "I'm inclined to agree" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "I generally agree"?

Use it when you find yourself in agreement with the main points but don't necessarily endorse every single detail or aspect of what's being discussed. It is often followed by a "but" to introduce those diverging details.

Is "I generally agree" formal or informal?

It's neither overly formal nor strictly informal. It works well in professional communications, discussions, and written content where a balanced tone is preferred. It sits between formal phrases like "I concur" and informal ones like "I guess so".