as a general statement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a general statement" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to introduce a broad or overarching idea that may not apply to every specific case. Example: "As a general statement, most people prefer to work in a collaborative environment rather than in isolation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

But, he added: "I don't think ex-generals, as a general statement, should be quiet.

The New York Times

That is true as a general statement, but no previous host has come close to presenting athletes with conditions that are as noxious as Beijing's.

The Economist

We need to get the rackets into the hands of more kids and more athletic kids just as a general statement.

Independent

"Short People," for instance, his 1977 single that reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart, attacked people of small stature, as a general statement about prejudice.

The New York Times

Divorced from its original context and misunderstood as a general statement about the scope and limits of the government's authority to kill citizens, the free-floating reasoning would lead to widespread confusion.

The New York Times

That is important as a general statement, but real reform will require an agreement on substantial increases in capital levels, as well as on how capital will be measured and how the new rules will be enforced.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

This past week, the McCain campaign presented the list of the economists as backing a general statement outlining the Senator's economic objectives.

Huffington Post

As far as I knew it was a general statement without naming anyone," he added.

Independent

A syllabus is "a general statement as to the pedagogical arrangement of learning content" (McDonough, Shaw and Masuhara, 2013, p. 11).

International Journal for Educational Integrity

It is a common technique to start an introduction with a general statement such as "In modern society" or "Throughout history".

WikiHow

Some people may be picky about who knows about any allergies so you can do a general statement such as "We do have a peanut allergy please make sure all dishes are Peanut free!" instead of listing the person who has the allergy!

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a general statement" to introduce a broad principle or observation before delving into specifics. This helps set the context and avoid misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "as a general statement" to introduce claims that lack evidence or are based on personal opinions. Ensure that the statement is supported by facts or widely accepted knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a general statement" functions as a discourse marker. It serves to introduce a proposition that is intended to be broadly applicable, though not necessarily universally true. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

44%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a general statement" is a versatile phrase used to introduce broad observations or principles. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts such as news and scientific articles. While the phrase sets a wide scope, writers should ensure their claims are supported by evidence. Alternatives like "in general terms" and "generally speaking" offer similar meanings, allowing for nuanced expression. Overall, mastering the use of "as a general statement" enhances clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in general terms

Focuses on the overall scope rather than a specific declaration.

generally speaking

Emphasizes the act of speaking about something broadly.

as a rule

Highlights that the statement is typically true, though exceptions may exist.

by and large

Indicates that the statement is mostly true.

on the whole

Stresses that the statement considers the entire situation.

in most cases

Implies that the statement is applicable more often than not.

for the most part

Similar to "in most cases", but places more emphasis on the prevalence.

typically

Highlights that the statement is characteristic.

ordinarily

Indicates the statement is usual or normal.

in the majority of instances

Focuses on a significant number of occurrences.

FAQs

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

Use "as a general statement" to preface a broad assertion or principle before going into specific details or exceptions. It helps to frame the discussion and provides context.

What phrases can I use instead of "as a general statement"?

Alternatives include "in general terms", "generally speaking", or "as a rule", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "as a general statement" in academic writing?

Yes, "as a general statement" is appropriate in academic writing when introducing a broad concept or principle that requires further elaboration or qualification.

What is the difference between "as a general statement" and "as a specific example"?

"As a general statement" introduces a broad idea, while "as a specific example" introduces a particular case that illustrates or supports that idea. They serve opposite purposes in structuring an argument.