general ideas about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "general ideas about" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing broad concepts or themes related to a particular topic. Example: "In this section, we will explore general ideas about climate change and its impact on global ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

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

The New York Times

These findings suggest some of the neurobiological mechanisms that link individual memories into more general ideas about the world.

Nature

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

Do the general ideas about the worrying sounds the paediatrician heard in my son's chest correspond with the unique particularities of Walker?

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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

"For young people, we have a general idea about it," said Xiao Zhiqiang, a 35-year-old factory manager in Chongqing.

The Washington Post

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

Abstracts are used to introduce the contents to readers, and give a general idea about the full reports and sometimes are the only source of information available to readers.

Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a complex topic, start by outlining the "general ideas about" it to provide a foundational understanding for your audience before delving into specifics.

Common error

Avoid using "general ideas about" as an excuse for lacking specific knowledge. While it's good to start with a broad understanding, ensure you eventually move towards detailed and substantiated information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general ideas about" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or noun phrase. It introduces a topic or subject in a broad, non-specific manner. Ludwig provides examples showcasing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "general ideas about" serves as a versatile tool for introducing topics or concepts in a broad, non-specific manner. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable across various writing styles, though it appears more frequently in news and scientific contexts. When using "general ideas about", it's crucial to balance the broad overview with subsequent specific details to avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "broad concepts regarding" can be employed to add nuance or formality. While providing initial context, remember to support those "general ideas about" with precise information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broad concepts regarding

Replaces "ideas" with "concepts" and uses "regarding" instead of "about", emphasizing a conceptual focus.

general notions concerning

Replaces "ideas" with "notions" and "about" with "concerning", maintaining a formal tone.

general overview concerning

Highlights an overview and replaces "about" with "concerning", creating a more formal tone.

overall thoughts on

Substitutes "ideas" with "thoughts" and uses "on" instead of "about", providing a more informal and subjective perspective.

basic premises surrounding

Replaces "ideas" with "premises" emphasizing assumptions and replaces "about" with "surrounding" to show context.

preliminary thoughts regarding

Adds a sense of initial exploration and replaces "about" with "regarding" to create a slightly more formal tone.

basic understanding of

Focuses on the level of comprehension, suggesting a foundational knowledge rather than just ideas.

fundamental concepts of

Highlights the core principles instead of general ideas, adding a level of importance.

high-level view of

Emphasizes a simplified, overview perspective of a topic, moving away from specific ideas.

initial impressions of

Focuses on first thoughts, emphasizing preliminary and subjective viewpoint instead of objective ideas.

FAQs

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

You can use "general ideas about" to introduce a broad topic. For example, "Let's discuss some general ideas about renewable energy before getting into specific technologies".

What's a more formal alternative to "general ideas about"?

For a more formal tone, you could use "broad concepts regarding" or "overall thoughts on".

Is it better to be specific or use "general ideas about" in academic writing?

While starting with "general ideas about" can provide context, academic writing generally requires specific details and evidence to support your claims. Use general ideas as an introduction, then transition to specifics.

When is it appropriate to use "general ideas about"?

It's appropriate when you want to introduce a topic broadly, summarize key concepts, or discuss foundational knowledge before diving into details. Avoid using it when specific information is required.