a general sense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a general sense" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe the overall feeling or message of something. For example, "The book left me with a general sense of hope for the future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Flaubert's intelligence, moreover, was sharpened in a general sense.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A general sense of not having control over one's fate.

The New York Times

In a general sense, this interpretation appears to be accurate.

The Guardian

That is creating a general sense of dissatisfaction and pessimism".

The New York Times

Cohesion was sacrificed in a bid to make the audience "understand" Shakespeare in a general sense.

The New Yorker

There was a general sense of intoxication in the country and beyond.

The New Yorker

He tells me: "Corbyn is pretty toxic in a general sense round here".

Independent

Drugs, crime and a general sense of foreboding clung to the empty streets and warehouses.

The New York Times

Truly weak states are doing well just to establish a general sense of order.

The Economist

Many knew in a general sense what they were coming for.

The New York Times - Arts

Some algae live inside other organisms, and in a general sense these are called endosymbionts.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a general sense" when you want to convey an overall impression or feeling rather than a precise understanding. For example, "There was a general sense of unease in the room."

Common error

Avoid using "a general sense" when you need to provide specific or detailed information. Instead, offer concrete facts or precise descriptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a general sense" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb or preposition, describing a non-specific awareness, feeling, or understanding about something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

21%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a general sense" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe an overall impression, feeling, or understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, although the majority of examples are found in news and media. When writing, it is important to consider whether a more precise term might be appropriate, particularly in formal contexts. Related phrases like "overall impression" or "rough idea" can serve as alternatives depending on the desired nuance. Keep in mind that using "a general sense" is more suitable when conveying subjective experiences rather than specific, factual details.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a general awareness

Focuses on the state of being conscious or informed about something.

an overall impression

Focuses on the lasting effect or image something leaves.

a common perception

Indicates a widely shared view or understanding.

a broad understanding

Emphasizes a wide scope of knowledge rather than a feeling or perception.

a rough idea

Suggests an approximate or preliminary understanding.

a vague feeling

Highlights the lack of clarity or precision in the feeling.

an intuitive grasp

Highlights a quick and ready comprehension without explicit reasoning.

a basic notion

Implies a fundamental or elementary concept.

a gut feeling

Conveys an intuitive or instinctive sense, often without rational basis.

a prevailing sentiment

Refers to a widespread or dominant emotional state.

FAQs

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

You can use "a general sense" to describe an overall feeling, understanding, or impression. For example, "I had "a general sense" that something was wrong."

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

You can use alternatives like "overall impression", "rough idea", or "basic notion" depending on the context.

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

Yes, it is appropriate, but consider whether a more precise term would be more effective. Alternatives like "overall understanding" or "prevailing sentiment" may be more suitable in some formal contexts.

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

"A general sense" refers to an overall impression or feeling, while "a specific understanding" refers to a detailed and precise comprehension of something. If you have a vague feeling, it's ""a general sense"", but if you know exactly what is happening, you have "a specific understanding".