generally the case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generally the case" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is true in most situations or under typical circumstances. Example: "While there are exceptions, it is generally the case that exercise improves mental health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But this is not generally the case".

The New York Times

It is shown that this is generally the case.

Computers and Electronics in Agriculture

As is generally the case with indictments of this sort, recognizable names are sparse.

The New Yorker

As was generally the case with Ms. Richards's characters, she rises to the challenge.

The New York Times - Arts

But, as is generally the case with supposed curses, this coincidence of difficulties has natural explanations.

The Guardian

Responses were mixed, as was generally the case in polls conducted at that point.

The Washington Post

But, as is generally the case, the ad doesn't tell them how well the drug works.

The New York Times

Mr. Can said some retailers did lose money on certain offers, but that was not generally the case.

The New York Times

As is generally the case with earthquakes, animals seemed to realize that something was up before humans did.

The New York Times

As is generally the case with Indonesian cuisine, they take a bit of time, and concentration, to prepare.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

could determine whether or not a patient's stress hormones were in overdrive, as is generally the case among melancholic patients.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "generally the case" to introduce a statement that holds true in most situations but may have exceptions. This adds a layer of nuance to your writing, acknowledging that not all situations conform to the norm.

Common error

Avoid using "generally the case" when the statement is almost always true or has very few exceptions. In such instances, a stronger, more definitive statement is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally the case" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the frequency or typicality of an action or state. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it introduces statements that are true in most, but not all, situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "generally the case" is a versatile phrase used to qualify statements, indicating they are true in most situations but not universally. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While appropriate for various writing styles, remember to avoid overusing it when a statement is consistently true. Ludwig's examples highlight its effectiveness in adding nuance and preventing overgeneralizations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typically the situation

This alternative uses "typically" instead of "generally", suggesting a common but not universal occurrence.

usually the situation

Replaces "generally" with "usually", indicating that something happens in most circumstances, though exceptions exist.

commonly the situation

Substitutes "generally" with "commonly", implying that something occurs frequently.

in most instances

Rephrases the idea to focus on individual occurrences rather than a general state.

as a rule

This shorter alternative presents the statement as a general principle or guideline.

more often than not

Uses a more descriptive phrase to convey that something is likely to happen.

it is typical

Shifts the sentence structure to emphasize the typical nature of the subject.

it is usual

A simple alternative that emphasizes the commonness of a situation or event.

the norm is

Focuses on the situation being considered as the standard or expected behavior.

in the majority of instances

Highlights that the situation occurs in a significant portion of cases.

FAQs

How can I use "generally the case" in a sentence?

Use "generally the case" to introduce a statement that is true in most situations but allows for exceptions. For example, "It is "generally the case" that students perform better when they are well-rested."

What are some alternatives to "generally the case"?

Alternatives include "typically the situation", "usually the situation", or "commonly the situation". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always necessary to qualify a statement with "generally the case"?

No, it's only necessary when there are notable exceptions to the statement. If a statement is almost always true, it may be better to state it without qualification. If it is not often true, saying it is "generally the case" would be misleading.

What's the difference between "generally the case" and "always the case"?

"Generally the case" implies that a situation is true in most instances but not all, while "always the case" means that it is true without exception. The former acknowledges potential variations or exceptions, whereas the latter asserts a universal truth.