generally the same

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generally the same" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to indicate that two things are similar or that there is little difference between two things. For example, "The two versions of the story are generally the same, with minor differences here and there."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Times and technology change but people are generally the same".

The New York Times

The two timers work generally the same way.

Cornell University

Variations occur, but the basic pattern is generally the same.

Quaternary International

Results on risk assessment remained generally the same.

Food and Chemical Toxicology

"There are a few little bits here and there but otherwise it is generally the same.

The Guardian - Sport

Therefore, the health effects of the three types of salt are generally the same.

Columbia University

The whales normally make long dives and come up in generally the same area.

The Washington Post

Whether the physician or the nurse wields the scalpel, the charge is generally the same.

The New York Times - Health

Significant covariates were generally the same across gender and racial/ethnic subgroups.

Drug and Alcohol Dependence

The official holidays in Bahrain are generally the same as those observed in most Muslim countries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"One thing which characterizes New York is all streets are generally the same concept," said Mr. Gehl, the Danish planner.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "generally the same" to convey that items or concepts share significant similarities, but don't hesitate to acknowledge minor differences for accuracy. Acknowledging slight variations enhances credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "generally the same" when significant differences exist. This can mislead readers and weaken your argument. If the differences are substantial, choose a more nuanced phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally the same" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a state of qualified similarity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

32%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "generally the same" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a qualified similarity between two or more things. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriateness in various contexts. It functions as an adjectival phrase and is commonly found in news, scientific, and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure that you acknowledge the possibility of minor differences to maintain accuracy and credibility. Consider alternatives like "largely equivalent" or "broadly similar" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

largely equivalent

Emphasizes a broad similarity, with possible minor differences.

mostly identical

Highlights a high degree of similarity, suggesting only small variations.

broadly similar

Suggests a general resemblance, with allowance for some dissimilarities.

essentially alike

Focuses on the fundamental similarity, overlooking superficial differences.

virtually indistinguishable

Implies a near-perfect match, making differentiation difficult.

comparable overall

Highlights the overall similarity, despite potential specific differences.

in most respects equal

Emphasizes equality in the majority of aspects or features.

for the most part, alike

Indicates similarity with a few exceptions or deviations.

on average, equivalent

Points to an equivalence based on an average or general assessment.

substantially uniform

Underlines a notable degree of consistency or regularity.

FAQs

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

Use "generally the same" to indicate that two or more things share key characteristics but may have some minor differences. For example, "The instructions for both models are "generally the same"."

What are some alternatives to "generally the same"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "largely equivalent", "mostly identical", or "broadly similar". Choose the phrase that best reflects the degree of similarity you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "generally the same" in formal writing?

Yes, "generally the same" is appropriate for formal writing, as it clearly communicates a qualified similarity. However, consider whether a more precise term might be available to describe the specific degree of similarity.

What is the difference between "generally the same" and "exactly the same"?

"Generally the same" implies minor differences, while "exactly the same" means there are no differences. Use "generally the same" when there are slight variations, and "exactly the same" when the items are identical.