general categories

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "general categories" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to broad classifications or groupings that encompass various specific items or concepts. Example: "In our research, we identified several general categories of consumer behavior that influence purchasing decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Early reactions to the draft fall into two general categories.

The New York Times

Traditional Islamic law (Sharīʿah) divides crimes into two general categories.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Here is how major Sunni insurgent groups divide into three general categories.

The New York Times

In Tilly's view, we rely on four general categories of reasons.

The New Yorker

Diana's therapy-friendly individuality escaped from these stale and general categories.

The Guardian - Opinion

Our options, he argues, can be divided into three general categories: austerity, stimulus and doing nothing.

The New York Times - Magazine

Many other potentially blinding disorders do not fit easily into general categories.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Walls may be classified in three general categories: load-bearing, non-load-bearing, and veneer.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Most of the solutions fall into three general categories: the hiring of human editors; crowdsourcing, and technological or algorithmic solutions.

The Guardian - Tech

These techniques fall into two general categories.

Nano Convergence

Solutions fall into three general categories.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When classifying information, clearly define the "general categories" to avoid ambiguity. Provide specific examples within each category to illustrate their scope.

Common error

Avoid creating "general categories" that overlap significantly, as this can lead to confusion. Each category should have distinct criteria for inclusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general categories" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It's used to denote broad groupings or classifications, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples where things are divided, classified, or fall into such categories.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Science & Research

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "general categories" is a commonly used noun phrase that serves to classify and organize information into broad groupings. Ludwig highlights its prevalent usage across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. The phrase is considered grammatically correct and versatile, suitable for both formal and informal communication. To enhance clarity, it's best practice to define these categories explicitly and avoid significant overlap between them. Alternatives such as "broad classifications" or "overall groupings" offer similar meanings, making "general categories" a valuable tool for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broad classifications

Emphasizes the width or scope of the groupings.

overall groupings

Focuses on the comprehensive nature of the collective.

main divisions

Highlights the principal segments or sections.

primary classifications

Stresses the fundamental organization of items.

major groupings

Indicates the significant clusters or assemblies.

principal divisions

Emphasizes the key separations or segments.

basic categories

Focuses on the fundamental groupings.

common classifications

Highlights typical or widely accepted groupings.

typical categories

Focuses on the usual or standard groupings.

standard classifications

Emphasizes established or conventional groupings.

FAQs

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

You can use "general categories" to refer to broad classifications or groupings. For example: "The solutions fall into three "general categories": austerity, stimulus, and doing nothing."

What are some alternatives to "general categories"?

Alternatives include "broad classifications", "overall groupings", or "main divisions", depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "general categories" and "specific categories"?

"General categories" are overarching groups, while specific categories are more detailed and fall under these broader groups. For example, 'Food' is a general category, while 'Italian' is a specific category.

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

Yes, "general categories" is appropriate for formal writing as it is a clear and concise way to refer to broad classifications. It's commonly used in academic, scientific, and business contexts.