I work generally

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I work generally" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It could be used to indicate that your work is not specialized or that you have a broad range of responsibilities, but it is better to use more precise language. Example: "In my role, I work generally across various departments to ensure smooth operations."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I work generally with troubled kids, defiant teens, worried parents, or struggling couples.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The harder I worked, generally, and the less the work had to do with something I loved, the less I had to use (for good, or for love, or for kindness) at the end of the day.

The New Yorker

It is a fascinating look at the topic — and a fine primer in how markets work generally.

The New York Times

I think where I work is generally quite good in terms of dealing with harassment, but there are still some old attitudes around.

The Guardian - Money

I've been working, and when I work I generally read things that are short and distracting, so I also have (next to the bed) "A Mencken Chrestomathy" and (next to the potty) "The Oxford Book of Humorous Prose," wonderfully edited by Frank Muir — everyone should have a copy — and "All in One Basket," by Deborah Mitford, Dowager Duchess of Devonshire.

The New York Times - Books

As a register of the quality of fielding, the error works generally but not specifically.

The New Yorker

Up until now, implementation is working generally.

Environmental Sciences Europe

It is about the way our economy works generally.

BBC

That's not how life works, generally speaking.

Huffington Post

Commentators of writers' works generally express their own problems and their own obsessions through analyzing the work of a writer.

Huffington Post

At the restaurant where I worked, managers generally say that a break is permitted, as long as it gets their blessing.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing your role, be specific about the types of tasks you handle, rather than using the vague phrase "I work generally". Provide context to clarify the scope of your responsibilities.

Common error

Using "I work generally" can be unclear. Instead, specify the industries, departments, or types of projects you are involved in to provide a clearer picture of your work.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I work generally" functions as a statement of one's professional activity, but it lacks precision. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically acceptable but not the most common or clear way to describe one's work.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while grammatically sound, the phrase "I work generally" is not the most effective way to describe your professional activities. It lacks specificity and can be perceived as vague. Ludwig AI suggests that alternative phrases such as "I usually work" or "I typically work" might be more appropriate, depending on the intended meaning. Furthermore, providing context or detailing the specific areas of your work will offer greater clarity. The limited examples from Ludwig also point to its rare occurrence, especially compared to more direct descriptions of work responsibilities. Therefore, consider replacing "I work generally" with more precise and informative language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I usually work

Focuses on the typical or habitual nature of the work performed, instead of generalizing the type of work.

I typically work

Similar to "I usually work", this emphasizes the common pattern or routine in one's work.

I work in general

This alternative emphasizes the broad scope of the work but can sound slightly less natural.

I work across multiple areas

Highlights the involvement in various domains or fields within the work.

My work involves a variety of tasks

Shifts the focus to the diverse nature of the tasks included in the job.

I have a broad scope of work

Emphasizes the wide-ranging responsibilities and areas covered in the job.

I handle a wide range of responsibilities

This highlights the extent and variety of duties undertaken.

I am responsible for various tasks

This emphasizes the diverse nature of the tasks included in the job.

I am often involved in

Highlights frequent participation or engagement in specific activities or areas.

My job entails diverse activities

This alternative emphasizes the varied and multifaceted nature of the job's requirements.

FAQs

What does "I work generally" mean?

The phrase "I work generally" is not very common and can be vague. It could mean that you have a wide range of responsibilities or that your work isn't specialized. Try using more specific phrases like "I work across multiple areas" or "My work involves a variety of tasks".

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

While grammatically correct, it's better to avoid "I work generally" due to its lack of clarity. If you must use it, provide context: "I work generally in the field of education, assisting with curriculum development and teacher training."

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

You can use alternatives like "I usually work", "I typically work", or "I work in general" depending on the context. Consider also specifying the areas you work in.

Which is correct, "I work generally" or "I generally work"?

"I generally work" is more common and natural-sounding. The placement of "generally" before the verb is typical in English. While "I work generally" isn't incorrect, it's less frequently used.