a general reflection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a general reflection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing thoughts or considerations that are broad and not specific to a particular instance or detail. Example: "In a general reflection on the topic, one can see the various implications it has on society."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Specifically, these should not be considered as reflecting "world-wide" estimates, but rather, a general reflection of the current state of evidence from various regions.

Autism Research

However, it may be possible that the observed language structure does not only reflect how we perceive event units, but could be a general reflection of the preferred global-over-local approach of the human brain (e.g., Fink et al., 1996).

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

This chapter is not about data science for software engineering specifically; it is rather a general reflection about the broad set of techniques whose goal is to help developers perform software engineering tasks more efficiently and/or effectively.

Perspectives on Data Science for Software Engineering

I want this move to happen within the framework of a general reflection because it is not for the law to write history". The law was passed quietly in February and aroused controversy when lawmakers refused to revoke it after riots in November in France's poor suburbs.

The New York Times

At the same time the book can be read as a general reflection on this most suggestive and mysterious of colours: its signalling of cosmic or private depths, the blue remembered hills of childhood, the bruising or delicate insistence of certain hues in writers from Beckett ("A very blue man," says Gass) to Katherine Mansfield ("Very beautiful, O God! is a blue tea-pot with two white cups attending").

The Guardian - Books

To address this point fully, we ought to start with a general reflection about governance in case of scientific uncertainty.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

jPaula, cite 19: 3. kIt must be mentioned that the Swiss Ethics Committee on Non-Human GECNHtechaslogy (ECNH) has published a few statements presenting a more general reflection on the dignity of living beings.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

Let it be said, though, that whatever one's distaste for bully hockey (a better word than goon) at least the Bruins loss of Nathan Horton may cause a more general reflection on the necessity of removing all head shots from the game.

The New Yorker

So there's a kind of general reflection beyond the surface events of the story.

The Guardian - Film

Van Fraassen has proposed an additional principle (Reflection or Special Reflection), which he now regards as a special case of an even more general principle (General Reflection).[3] B. Other probabilistic rules of inference.

SEP

Despite the many theoretical contributions that explore the interaction between space and social phenomena from a theoretical point of view, we still find today the absence of a general empirical reflection on this issue.

Cities

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a general reflection", ensure that the surrounding text provides enough context to clarify the scope and focus of the reflection. For example, specify the area or topic being reflected upon.

Common error

Avoid using "a general reflection" as a substitute for specific analysis. While it's useful for introducing broad ideas, always follow up with concrete examples and detailed explanations to support your points.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a general reflection" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a broad consideration or contemplation. It sets the stage for a more detailed discussion or analysis, as evidenced by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a general reflection" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves as an introductory element, signaling a broad consideration of a topic, and is most commonly found in scientific and news media contexts. While not exceedingly frequent, its usage is appropriate in both neutral and formal writing, preparing the reader for a comprehensive yet overarching perspective. Remember to avoid overgeneralization and support your reflections with specific details. Alternatives like "a broad overview" or "a wide-ranging consideration" can be used to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a broad overview

Focuses on providing a high-level summary, rather than a deep analysis.

a wide-ranging consideration

Implies a more extensive and comprehensive examination of the topic.

a global assessment

Suggests an evaluation that takes into account worldwide factors and implications.

a comprehensive review

Emphasizes a thorough and detailed examination of the subject matter.

a holistic perspective

Indicates considering the subject as a whole, with all parts interconnected.

a sweeping observation

Implies a broad and perhaps less detailed observation.

a universal thought

Highlights the widespread applicability or relevance of the idea.

a collective insight

Suggests shared understanding and contemplation.

a high-level analysis

Indicates a superficial investigation of the topic.

an overall impression

Focuses on the general feeling or understanding gained from something.

FAQs

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

You can use "a general reflection" to introduce a broad thought or consideration about a topic. For example, "A general reflection on current economic trends reveals several areas of concern".

What are some alternatives to "a general reflection"?

Alternatives include "a broad overview", "a wide-ranging consideration", or "a comprehensive review", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "a general reflection" is suitable for formal writing, especially when introducing a broad topic or summarizing key points. However, ensure that your reflection is supported by evidence and detailed analysis.

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

"A general reflection" offers a broad overview or consideration of a topic, while "a specific analysis" delves into particular details and aspects. The former is about breadth, and the latter is about depth.