general idea about

USAGE SUMMARY

"general idea about" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that you have a general idea of something. For example, "I had a general idea about how the system worked, but I still had to read the instructions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

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

"But it's such an important thing to say, and so simple to say, at least to give some general idea about.

The New Yorker

I don't think it's only the music industry – there is a general idea about how women should look that has been going on for ages, although it's definitely getting worse.

The Guardian

Former aspect concerns with the fragmentation problem caused by the lack of a general idea about the reuse of this heritage.

City, Territory and Architecture

However, only a general idea about the analytical scheme was provided in these models, without details with regard to damage evolution and respective mechanisms.

Mechanics of Advanced Materials and Modern Processes

You can see how quickly the digital magazine lets me swipe through pages and photo slides, and get a general idea about some of the navigation elements.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Mr. Bloomberg has released some general ideas about the need to rebuild Lower Manhattan, promising specifics soon.

The New York Times

The eugenicists had very general ideas about genetics and heredity, very crude ideas about intelligence, and deeply poisonous ideas about racial hierarchies.

The New York Times

His major work is the 1909 Plan of Chicago, coauthored with Edward H. Bennett, that outlines specific recommendations but also includes more general ideas about urban planning.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They have to live up to the rhetoric, big speeches and all these big general ideas about the crisis and inequality".

The Guardian

Ward is still digesting the job ahead of him, but he does have general ideas about the U.S.O.C. and one firm goal.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "general idea about" when you want to convey that someone has a basic, non-detailed understanding of a topic. For instance, "Before the meeting, make sure everyone has a "general idea about" the project goals".

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "general idea about" when specific details are necessary. While it's useful for introductions, follow up with concrete information to enhance clarity and understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general idea about" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It indicates having a basic or non-specific understanding of something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

44%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "general idea about" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to express a basic understanding of a topic. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While "general idea about" is useful for providing a basic overview, it's important to avoid overusing vague language and to provide more specific details when necessary. Alternatives such as "basic understanding of", "rough concept of", and "overall sense of" can offer more nuance depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overall sense of

Suggests a holistic but not necessarily detailed comprehension.

basic understanding of

Focuses more on the comprehension aspect, implying a foundational knowledge.

broad outline of

Implies a structural overview without delving into specifics.

high-level view of

Indicates an abstract or simplified perspective.

rough concept of

Highlights the preliminary and not fully formed nature of the idea.

preliminary grasp of

Emphasizes the early stages of understanding.

vague notion of

Emphasizes the lack of clarity and precision in the understanding.

cursory overview of

Indicates a quick and brief examination.

superficial knowledge of

Highlights a lack of deep understanding.

initial impression of

Focuses on the first thoughts or feelings formed about something.

FAQs

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

You can use "general idea about" to indicate a basic understanding of a topic. For example, "I have a "general idea about" the plot of the movie, but I haven't seen it yet".

What's a good alternative to "general idea about"?

Alternatives include "basic understanding of", "rough concept of", or "overall sense of", depending on the nuance you want to convey. Each alternative, such as "basic understanding of", "rough concept of", or "overall sense of", offers a slight shift in emphasis.

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

Yes, it's acceptable, but consider using more precise language if the context requires it. In a formal setting, phrases like "broad overview of" or "fundamental knowledge of" might be more suitable.

What is the difference between "general idea about" and "detailed knowledge of"?

"General idea about" indicates a superficial understanding, while "detailed knowledge of" implies a comprehensive and in-depth understanding. Having a "general idea about" a topic is like knowing the summary, while having a detailed knowledge is like having read the whole book.