generally looking for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generally looking for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a broad or non-specific search for something, often in contexts like job descriptions or inquiries. Example: "We are generally looking for candidates who are team players and have strong communication skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

They're generally looking for cash".

The New York Times - Style

When people are growing up they're generally looking for something in the culture that reflects their subconscious yearnings.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Gay people vacation like everyone else," Mr. Marcus said, "and they're generally looking for the same things: relaxation, fun, camaraderie and maybe a new boyfriend or girlfriend.

The New York Times - Travel

Employers who administer tests are generally looking for candidates who can fit into the corporate culture and handle the demands of the job.

The New York Times

But customers who are calling, Mr. Ballard said, are generally looking for more reassurance about the details and safety of trips.

The New York Times - Travel

One director of a "new economy" company in Mumbai confides that he spends half his time with bureaucrats, who are generally looking for pay-offs.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Its customers generally looked for bargains on the internet.

Harvard Business Review

The counters generally look for violence committed by nonstate actors conducted for a political purpose.

The New York Times

The men looked the way men have generally looked for the past twenty years: uncomfortable yet agreeable.

The New Yorker

After freshman year, students generally look for singles, suites or apartment living for more independence and privacy.

Cornell University

Players generally look for the newest, least-fluffed balls — the ones whose fuzzy felt covering is the least disheveled — of the six in use during a match.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing job descriptions, use "generally looking for" to describe the ideal candidate's broad skill set, allowing for flexibility in qualifications.

Common error

Be specific even when using "generally looking for". Always follow up with clear examples or criteria to avoid ambiguity and ensure the intended message is conveyed effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally looking for" functions as a verb phrase, typically used within a clause to describe an ongoing search or a set of desired attributes or qualities. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "generally looking for" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a broad search or expectation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s frequently used across diverse contexts, from News & Media to Academia and Science. While "generally looking for" implies flexibility, it's important to provide specific examples to avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "typically seeking" or "broadly searching for" can be used to fine-tune the meaning. Remember that while "generally looking for" is versatile, clarity and context are key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typically seeking

Replaces "generally" with "typically", suggesting a usual or expected search.

broadly searching for

Emphasizes the wide scope of the search with "broadly".

usually seeking

Substitutes "generally" with "usually", indicating a common but not invariable search.

mainly seeking

Focuses on the primary goal of the search using "mainly".

primarily searching for

Highlights the key objective of the search using "primarily".

commonly seeking

Indicates a frequent or widespread search with "commonly".

are often in search of

Uses a more verbose construction emphasizing the act of searching frequently.

are typically in the market for

Frames the search within a context of actively pursuing or acquiring something.

are commonly on the lookout for

Implies active vigilance and anticipation in the search.

are known to seek

Expresses a recognized or established pattern of searching.

FAQs

How can I use "generally looking for" in a sentence?

You can use "generally looking for" to describe a broad search or typical expectation. For example, "Employers are generally looking for candidates who possess strong communication skills."

What's a good alternative to "generally looking for"?

Alternatives include phrases like "typically seeking", "broadly searching for", or "usually seeking", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to be specific or general when using "generally looking for"?

While "generally looking for" implies a broad scope, it's always best to follow up with specific examples or criteria to provide clarity and avoid ambiguity.

What is the difference between "generally looking for" and "specifically looking for"?

"Generally looking for" suggests a flexible set of criteria, while "specifically looking for" implies a rigid and well-defined set of requirements. The former allows for a wider range of possibilities, while the latter is more targeted.