a general idea

USAGE SUMMARY

"a general idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a broad, general concept or notion that people can have about something. For example, "I have a general idea of what I need to do, but I'll need to do some more research to be sure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And Ms. Theallet has been guided by a general idea.

The New York Times

3. A general idea of the program's budget.

Princeton University

This chapter gives a general idea of geology, rock and soil properties, and their formation processes.

Geotechnical Engineering Calculations and Rules of Thumb

In the first part of the paper, a general idea of FL application is depicted.

Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence

Intelligence officials have a general idea of where they are hiding.

The New York Times

Supersymmetry is such a general idea that there is always another version that can be proposed.

The New York Times - Science

But investigators say they have a general idea where Mr. Rudolph has been spending his time.

The New York Times

Average interest-rate figures give you a general idea of what others are being offered.

The Washington Post

They have a general idea that it's taken up by the ocean and by plants.

MIT Technology Review

"At least then they have a general idea where you are".

The New York Times - Tech

We have a general idea of Stanley that fits into our hardware-store purchase heuristics.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a general idea" when you want to convey that something is not yet fully formed or concrete, and further details will come later.

Common error

Avoid assuming that everyone has the same "general idea". Provide enough context to ensure clarity, especially in diverse teams.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a general idea" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It indicates a preliminary or basic level of understanding, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

30%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a general idea" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express a basic or preliminary understanding of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely applicable across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Wiki, and Science. It is essential to provide sufficient context to avoid misunderstandings and clarify the expected level of detail. Consider alternatives like "a basic understanding" or "a rough notion" depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember to provide sufficient context to avoid ambiguity, especially in professional or academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a broad concept

Highlights the width or scope of the understanding.

a basic concept

Similar to basic understanding, but more abstract.

a basic understanding

Focuses on having a foundational level of comprehension.

an overview

Implies a comprehensive but not necessarily detailed view.

a working knowledge

Suggests enough understanding to be functional, but not necessarily expert.

a rough notion

Suggests an imprecise or preliminary understanding.

a rudimentary grasp

Indicates a basic and perhaps imperfect comprehension.

a preliminary thought

Emphasizes the initial or early stage of an idea.

a simplified version

Highlights the reduction of complexity in the idea.

an initial impression

Stresses the first, often incomplete, perception.

FAQs

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

You can use "a general idea" to indicate a basic understanding or concept, such as, "I have "a general idea" of the project scope, but need more specifics."

What are some alternatives to "a general idea"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a basic understanding", "a rough notion", or "a broad concept" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "a general idea" in formal writing?

Yes, "a general idea" is acceptable in formal writing, but ensure that you supplement it with more detailed information to avoid ambiguity. If possible, consider using "a basic understanding" for greater clarity.

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

"A general idea" is a broad concept or understanding, while "a specific plan" outlines concrete steps and details for achieving a goal. One is vague and the other is precise.