a general impression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a general impression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when summarizing or describing an overall feeling or understanding about a subject without going into specific details. Example: "After reviewing the report, I have a general impression that the project is on track for completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The winger, captured for £5m, has impressed everyone at The Hawthorns during pre-season, confirming a general impression that he was far too good for the Championship.

The Guardian - Sport

This ordinal scale represents a general impression of paralysis and impaired gait.

Behavioural Brain Research

There's a general impression that Scottish writers and artists are mostly in favour of independence.

The Guardian - Books

You have a general impression, sure, but what sticks out most are specific moments, individual players, passages of special eloquence.

The New York Times - Arts

Bloomberg's reporting is likely to add to a general impression of disarray in White House geopolitical decision-making.

The Washington Post

The results also provided a general impression on the possible impacts of climate change on flood estimation in the Quebec province.

Journal of Hydrology

Although there is a general impression that the two-decade-long insurgency in Indian-administered Kashmir the country's only Muslim-majority state is in remission, it still festers.

The Economist

The stolid Mr. Blix had been addressing the U.N. again — there was a general impression that he had rather undermined the case for war.

The New Yorker

In the account of the first year's campaign, the obscure place-names give no more than a general impression of a localized operation, perhaps in Cappadocia.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Paul is going to be hampered by a general impression in many parts of the state that he is sort of strange.

The New York Times

The reasons cited include concerns about security and a general impression that private banking clients did not want that kind of relationship with their bankers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "a general impression" with adverbs or adjectives to add precision. For instance: "a fairly general impression", "a strong general impression", or "a negative general impression".

Common error

Avoid using "a general impression" as the sole basis for critical decisions or evaluations, especially in professional or academic contexts. Always supplement your impressions with concrete evidence and data to ensure accuracy and fairness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a general impression" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a subjective understanding or feeling formed without detailed analysis. Ludwig's examples show its widespread use in expressing overall assessments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

52%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a general impression" is a commonly used noun phrase that conveys an overall sense or understanding, without delving into specific details. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in science and news & media, it serves as a preliminary assessment or a summary statement. When using this phrase, ensure it's supported by subsequent evidence to avoid over-reliance on subjective judgments. Alternatives such as "a general idea" or "an overall sense" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a general idea

This refers to a non-specific or detailed thought.

a broad understanding

This emphasizes a comprehensive but not necessarily detailed grasp.

an overall sense

This highlights a prevailing feeling or awareness.

a rough idea

This suggests a basic and approximate understanding.

a basic understanding

This indicates a fundamental level of comprehension.

a vague notion

This suggests an unclear or ill-defined idea.

an initial assessment

Highlights the first formal evaluation or judgment.

a primary feeling

Focuses on the initial emotional response or sentiment.

a global view

Emphasizes a comprehensive perspective encompassing all aspects.

a first glance

Captures the initial visual assessment or quick evaluation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a general impression" to describe an overall feeling or understanding you have about something. For example, "I have "a general impression" that the project is progressing smoothly."

What are some alternatives to "a general impression"?

Some alternatives to "a general impression" include "a general idea", "an overall sense", or "a broad understanding". The best choice depends on the specific context.

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

Yes, "a general impression" can be used in formal writing, but it's often better to provide specific details and evidence to support your impression. Use it to set the stage before diving into specifics.

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

"A general impression" is a broad, high-level understanding, while "a specific analysis" involves a detailed examination of individual components. You might start with "a general impression" and then conduct a specific analysis to confirm or refine it.