a general absence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a general absence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where there is a lack or nonexistence of something in a broad or overall sense. Example: "The report highlighted a general absence of data on the subject, making it difficult to draw any conclusions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

It was his lot to wander about in a misty forest, among insects, plants, and a general absence of culture, while luxurious trains hurtled into the distance.

The New Yorker

The downstream reaches of rivers or streams are commonly alluvial channels that have lower slopes and a general absence of rock ledges.

Britannica

The scientists' findings suggest that there are "deficits in the scientific quality of regulatory documents and a general absence of accurate experimental descriptions available before releases start".

The Guardian

On this day in late spring, his muscular build and deeply tanned skin were amply displayed by a general absence of clothing.

The New Yorker

Our Vietnam-era flak vests, retooled M-16's more than two decades old and a general absence of supplies added to an irrefutable feeling that we had been abandoned in the lion's den.

The New York Times

In the land of Voltaire, on the boulevard named for him, a general absence of religious belief hardly detracts from the seriousness of the shrines; why bend to a God that permits such carnage?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Related to this was a more general absence of "literariness" that he saw as a failing, or at least a disadvantage, and that formed a source of constant anguish to him.

The Guardian - Arts

The phylum Planctomycetes are an exception to the general absence of internal membranes in bacteria, because they have a double membrane around their nucleoids and contain other membrane-bound cellular structures.

Wikipedia

On the HBO series "Veep," the general absence of a purse is even a punch line: Julia Louis-Dreyfus instead relies on an aide, who carries around his own giant bag (nicknamed the Leviathan), so he is always ready with eyedrops, lipstick or even a Fig Newton.

The New York Times

Until then, many observers had come to regard the general absence of an official response as a sign of tacit approval — an acknowledgment that such investment could help build corporate champions and create jobs.

The New York Times

Our colleagues provided an alternative explanation for their general absence: the region is currently experiencing a very severe drought, and this, rather than the wind, could be responsible for the spotty sightings.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a general absence", ensure the context clearly indicates what is lacking. For example, "a general absence of funding" is more specific than just "a general absence".

Common error

Avoid using "a general absence" when a more specific term would provide greater clarity. Instead of "there was a general absence of communication", consider "there was a lack of clear communication channels".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a general absence" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the state or condition of something not being present or available in a broad or widespread manner, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

48%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a general absence" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe a widespread lack or deficiency. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in both formal and informal contexts. While alternatives like "a widespread lack" and "an overall deficiency" exist, "a general absence" remains a common and effective way to convey the non-existence or scarcity of something in a broad sense. Understanding the nuances of its usage, as well as potential errors, ensures clear and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a widespread lack

Focuses on the breadth of the absence.

an overall deficiency

Emphasizes the inadequacy or shortage.

a common unavailability

Highlights the lack of accessibility or presence.

a prevalent omission

Stresses the act of leaving something out on a broad scale.

a systemic void

Implies the absence is integrated into a system or structure.

a notable dearth

Emphasizes a scarcity or lack that is significant.

a marked insufficiency

Highlights that the lack is easily noticeable.

a universal nonexistence

Stresses that something is absent for everything.

a widespread exclusion

Highlights the removal of something from a wider scope.

a prevailing shortage

Stresses the shortage being dominant or widespread.

FAQs

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

You can use "a general absence" to describe a lack of something across a broad scope. For instance, "The study noted "a general absence" of specific data in that field."

What's the difference between "a general absence" and "a specific absence"?

"A general absence" indicates a widespread lack, whereas "a specific absence" refers to a lack of something particular. For example, "a general absence" of funding versus a specific absence of funding for Project X.

What can I say instead of "a general absence"?

You can use alternatives like "a widespread lack", "an overall deficiency", or "a common unavailability" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "the general absence" instead of "a general absence"?

While both are grammatically correct, "a general absence" is more common when introducing the concept. "The general absence" is appropriate when referring back to a previously mentioned absence. For example, "There was a general absence of rain. The general absence led to drought."