generally understood meaning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generally understood meaning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the common interpretation or significance of a term, phrase, or concept among a group of people. Example: "The term 'freedom' has a generally understood meaning that encompasses the idea of personal liberty and autonomy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Frankly, people in the wine business rarely spend time in wine bars or places that fit the generally understood meaning of the term.

The New York Times - Food

The different terms and their current definition or generally understood meaning are shown in Table 1.

European Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Participants generally understood the meaning of the response option "None" to mean there was no pain experienced due to their psoriasis while the response option "Mild" meant there was "some" pain, "a little bit" of pain, or pain "here and there".

Journal of Patient-Reported Outcomes

We use the terms "developed" and "developing" (and in respect of the latter also "emerging" and "transitional") for convenience, as these terms are widely used and their meaning generally understood, but we do so self-consciously, recognising that they are both complex and contested and constructed from a particular, northern/western perspective.

International Journal of Corporate Social Responsibility

"[T]he widespread development of the multinational corporation is one of our major accomplishments in the years since the war, though its meaning and importance have not been generally understood.

Huffington Post

Collusion, which is generally understood as secretive and often illicit collaboration, has no defined legal meaning.

The New York Times

For this reason the most fundamental science is generally understood to be "physics" – the name for which is still recognizable as meaning that it is the study of nature.

Wikipedia

But its novelty is not generally understood.

The Guardian - Opinion

That something else was once generally understood to be Christianity.

The Guardian - Opinion

Principles of reciprocity are powerful and generally understood.

HuffPost

Eventually they will also understand meaning better.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "generally understood meaning" when you want to emphasize that a particular interpretation or definition is widely accepted and recognized by a specific group or the general public. Be sure your intended audience shares this understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "generally understood meaning" if there's a chance your audience might have a different interpretation or lack familiarity with the subject. Instead, provide a clear and concise definition to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally understood meaning" functions as a qualifier, modifying a noun (such as 'term', 'concept', or 'definition') to indicate that its meaning is widely accepted or known. It suggests a common interpretation that does not require extensive explanation, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "generally understood meaning" is a phrase used to denote a widely accepted interpretation of a term or concept. As noted by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and functions as a qualifier. While its frequency is rare based on the provided examples, it appears in both news and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure that your audience shares the assumed understanding to avoid potential misinterpretations. If in doubt, provide a clear definition. Alternatives such as "commonly accepted definition" or "widely recognized interpretation" can also be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember to use "generally understood meaning" carefully, and clarify when necessary, to ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Commonly accepted definition

Focuses on the agreement and acceptance of a specific definition within a community.

Widely recognized interpretation

Highlights the widespread recognition and agreement on a particular interpretation.

Prevailing sense

Emphasizes the dominant or most common understanding of something.

Conventional wisdom

Refers to beliefs or ideas that are widely accepted as true, often without critical examination.

Established meaning

Focuses on the well-established and long-standing nature of a particular meaning.

Popular conception

Emphasizes the understanding or belief held by the general public.

Standard understanding

Highlights the conformity to a norm or standard in how something is understood.

Accepted notion

Emphasizes the acceptance of an idea or concept as valid or true.

Public perception

Refers to how something is viewed or understood by the general public.

Collective knowledge

Highlights the shared knowledge and understanding within a group or society.

FAQs

How can I use "generally understood meaning" in a sentence?

You can use "generally understood meaning" to refer to a concept or term that is widely accepted. For example: "The term 'sustainability' has a "generally understood meaning" that relates to environmental protection and resource conservation."

What is an alternative to "generally understood meaning"?

Alternatives to "generally understood meaning" include "commonly accepted definition", "widely recognized interpretation", or "prevailing sense", depending on the specific context.

Is it okay to use "generally understood meaning" in formal writing?

Yes, "generally understood meaning" is appropriate for formal writing when you are referring to a widely accepted concept. However, ensure that the context is clear to avoid ambiguity. Otherwise, it's always better to define a more "specific term" or concept.

What does "generally understood meaning" imply?

"Generally understood meaning" implies that the meaning of something is not obscure or technical, but is commonly known and accepted by most people or those familiar with the subject.