generally uncommon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generally uncommon" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not frequently encountered or observed in a general context. Example: "While some species of birds are commonly seen in urban areas, others are generally uncommon and require specific habitats to thrive."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Nonetheless, it is generally uncommon and not easily encountered.

Cornell University

Side effects were generally uncommon, minor and transient except for phlebitis.

Stanford University

Although considered to be generally uncommon, the species is capable of adapting to some degree of habitat modification.

Cornell University

Nonetheless, throughout most of this extensive range it is at most locally common, being generally uncommon or even rare.

Cornell University

The White-lored Antpitta is generally uncommon over most of its distribution, and perhaps in consequence very little is known of the species' behavior and biology.

Cornell University

Blue-cheeked Parrot is endemic to the Guianas, southeastern Venezuela and adjacent northern Brazil, and the species is generally uncommon and found at low densities.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

They are generally mild and uncommon.

Harvard University

Southern Bristle-Tyrant generally is uncommon, and its IUCN Red List conservation status is assessed as Near Threatened.

Cornell University

Benign tumors of the vertebrae are generally an uncommon cause for surgery.

The Spine Journal

Throughout its range, the Andean Teal appears to be sparsely distributed, generally rather uncommon, and probably declining.

Cornell University

Although the Buff-bellied Puffbird is not considered globally threatened, it is generally rather uncommon over much of its range, except perhaps in eastern Paraguay.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the prevalence of a phenomenon, use "generally uncommon" to indicate that it is not frequently observed but may occur in specific situations or contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "generally uncommon" when the subject is known to be extremely rare or nonexistent; instead, opt for phrases like "extremely rare" or "virtually nonexistent" to more accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally uncommon" functions as an adverbial modifier followed by an adjective. It qualifies the degree to which something is not common. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes the prevalence of a particular phenomenon.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

43%

Academia

33%

News & Media

13%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "generally uncommon" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that indicates something is not frequently encountered. According to Ludwig AI, it is considered correct and usable in written English. Its usage spans across various contexts, with a prevalence in scientific and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the described subject is indeed infrequent but not entirely absent. While alternatives like "typically rare" and "usually infrequent" exist, "generally uncommon" provides a balanced description of infrequency. Ludwig confirms its broad applicability and correctness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typically rare

Emphasizes the typical infrequency of something, focusing on its rarity.

usually infrequent

Highlights that something happens infrequently under normal circumstances.

mostly scarce

Focuses on the limited availability or presence of something.

largely unusual

Indicates that something deviates from the norm to a significant extent.

predominantly atypical

Stresses that something is mainly not conforming to the typical pattern.

commonly infrequent

Highlights the common occurrence of infrequency.

chiefly exceptional

Indicates that something is mainly an exception to the rule.

mostly isolated

Focuses on the separate or rare occurrence of something.

commonly isolated

Refers to the common occurrence of isolation of something.

mainly sporadic

Emphasizes the occasional and irregular nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "generally uncommon" in a sentence?

You can use "generally uncommon" to describe something that does not occur frequently or is not widely observed. For example, "Side effects were "generally uncommon", minor and transient except for phlebitis."

What's the difference between "generally uncommon" and "rare"?

"Generally uncommon" implies that something is not frequently encountered, but it does occur sometimes. "Rare" suggests a significantly lower frequency. Something that is "generally uncommon" is more likely to be encountered than something that is rare.

What are some alternatives to using "generally uncommon"?

You can use alternatives such as "typically rare", "usually infrequent", or "mostly scarce" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "generally uncommon" in formal writing?

Yes, "generally uncommon" is appropriate for formal writing. As Ludwig shows, it appears in academic papers, scientific articles, and news reports, making it suitable for professional and academic contexts.