general answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "general answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a broad or non-specific response to a question or topic. Example: "In response to your inquiry, I can provide a general answer that covers the main points without going into too much detail."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"You can't give a general answer to that.

The New York Times

Philosophical atomism offered a general answer to that question.

Britannica

Whatever the details, though, the general answer to the biologists' question is now clear.

The Economist

My general answer is, "You do, but don't worry about it".

The New York Times

Then he will probably demand that the retired general answer a series of questions.

The New York Times

That was a general answer to what I thought was a general question.

The New York Times - Magazine

The subtitle promises a general answer to a question that the book avoids directly asking.

The Guardian - Books

A general answer must be filed within 30 days of service of the complaint.

Cornell University

My general answer is that it does appear that bilingualism has some advantage for cognition.

Princeton University

There is no general answer, only case-by-case practice.WAR CRIMES: BRUTALITY, GENOCIDE, TERROR AND THE STRUGGLE FOR JUSTICE.

The Economist

The general answer by the panel was no, although some swore by iPads at the bedside and video booths.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "general answer" when you want to provide a response that covers the main points without getting into specific details. It's appropriate when a detailed explanation is not necessary or when you lack specific information.

Common error

Avoid using a "general answer" when specific details are required or expected. Offering a vague response in such situations can frustrate the audience and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general answer" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It is used to describe the type of response given, indicating that it is not detailed or specific but rather covers the main points broadly. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

25%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "general answer" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a broad, non-specific response. It appears frequently in diverse sources, including news media, scientific publications, and academic texts. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is widely applicable. While it's generally acceptable, be mindful of the context: avoid offering a "general answer" when specific details are expected. Alternatives like "broad answer", "overall response", or "typical reply" can be used to achieve similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Recognizing its function, purpose, and appropriate contexts ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broad answer

Replaces 'general' with 'broad', emphasizing the wide scope of the answer.

overall response

Focuses on the comprehensive nature of the reply.

typical reply

Highlights the common or standard nature of the answer.

standard answer

Similar to 'typical reply', but emphasizes conformity to a norm.

common response

Emphasizes the widespread or usual nature of the answer.

generic response

Suggests a non-specific, universally applicable answer.

usual explanation

Focuses on an explanation that is commonly given or accepted.

boilerplate answer

Implies a pre-prepared or formulaic answer.

customary explanation

Suggests an explanation rooted in habit or established practice.

a rule of thumb

This idiomatic phrase suggests a practical, though not always precise, answer or guideline.

FAQs

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

You can use "general answer" when providing a broad response that doesn't delve into specifics. For instance, "I can give you a "general answer" now, but the specifics will require more research."

What's an alternative to "general answer"?

Alternatives to "general answer" include "broad answer", "overall response", or "typical reply", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "general answer" in formal writing?

While "general answer" is acceptable in most contexts, in highly formal or academic writing, consider more precise alternatives like "overall response" or "standard answer" to maintain a higher level of formality.

When is it better to avoid giving a "general answer"?

Avoid giving a "general answer" when the question requires specific, detailed information. In such cases, it's better to admit you don't have all the details or provide a partial answer while promising to follow up with more specific information later.