as a general idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a general idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express a broad or overarching concept without going into specific details. Example: "As a general idea, we should aim to improve our customer service to enhance client satisfaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

But while legislators and academics alike support ante-mortem probate as a general idea, disagreement has emerged over the specific form it should take.

Cornell University

As a general idea though, direct subsidized loans have a grace period of six months.

Huffington Post

I still feel this way, at least as a general idea.

Huffington Post

In this case, an advantage arises, as a general idea of the pediatricians' KAP – level is being emerged.

BMC Infectious Diseases

The items related to function were constructed either as a general idea [ 22, 23] or specific regarding to mastication, phonetic, comfort use and retention issues [ 24].

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

14, 23, 52, 55– 57 The fourth-domain concept is sometimes presented as a general idea and on other occasions as a specific hypothesis on the evolution of viruses.

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Likewise, we can't expect to teach everyone enough programming to build Facebook, but we can make sure as many people as possible have a general idea of how it was built.

TechCrunch

The mind, as she saw it, can think of a particular as an example of a general idea.

Asian Journal of German and European Studies

Long-felt speculation had to be presented as close-watched observation, and a general idea about life had to be presented as a sequence of ideas about dogs.

The New Yorker

Still, ecological niche models have proven to have good predictive abilities as regards species invasions4,5, and a general idea of the tick's invasive potential can inform efforts towards mitigation and eradication.

Nature

For now, consumers can use this information to get a general idea as to their financial health, but in the future, Credit Sesame will provide more specific guidance.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting the summary to non-experts, use "as a general idea" to set the tone of explanation that does not go into all details.

Common error

Avoid using "as a general idea" as a substitute for detailed analysis. Ensure that you follow up with specifics to support the initial broad concept you've introduced.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a general idea" functions as an introductory phrase, setting the stage for a more detailed explanation or discussion. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's used to present a broad concept without immediate specifics.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

43%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a general idea" serves as an introductory phrase to present a concept in broad terms. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for various contexts, including science, news, and academia. Usage analysis reveals that while not exceedingly frequent, it consistently functions to provide a preliminary understanding before delving into specifics. When writing, ensure to support initial generalizations with detailed analysis. Consider alternatives like "in broad terms" or "generally speaking" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in broad terms

Focuses on the scope of the description being wide-ranging.

generally speaking

Emphasizes the act of making a generalization.

as a rule of thumb

Suggests a practical and approximate approach.

in principle

Highlights the theoretical or fundamental aspect of the idea.

on the whole

Indicates a comprehensive view, considering all aspects.

in essence

Highlights the fundamental nature of something.

basically

Indicates the core or fundamental aspect.

by and large

Implies that something is mostly true, despite exceptions.

for the most part

Suggests that something is true in most cases.

in a nutshell

Conveys a summarized or condensed version of an idea.

FAQs

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

You can use "as a general idea" to introduce a broad concept or principle before delving into specifics. For example: "As a general idea, the project aims to improve efficiency across all departments."

What are some alternatives to "as a general idea"?

Alternatives include "in broad terms", "generally speaking", or "in principle", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "as a general idea" is appropriate in formal writing when you need to introduce a topic or concept in a broad, non-specific manner before providing more detailed information.

How does "as a general idea" differ from "in detail"?

"As a general idea" introduces a concept broadly, while "in detail" implies a comprehensive and thorough examination of specific aspects. They serve opposite purposes in communication.