in a general case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a general case" is correct and is commonly used in written English.
It can be used when you want to refer to a broad or common situation. For example: Most people will agree that, in a general case, it is better to be honest than to lie.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

In general, a probability distribution function and expected value of a random variable on a time scale can be defined as follows: By using an exponential function on time scales, we can define an exponential probability density function in a general case and we can define a moment generating function by using Laplace transformations on time scales.

Advances in Difference Equations

I think that is true in a general case.

Yale University

Therefore, we cannot apply the modified simplex method to solve this problem, in a general case.

Computers & Industrial Engineering

In a general case of four-position rigid-body guidance problems, a unique PR dyad and RP dyad exist.

Mechanism and Machine Theory

It is shown here that the autocorrelation function and the MIL methods are not related in a general case.

Medical Engineering & Physics

Nevertheless, such a model should take into account the transport of both anions and protons (cations in a general case).

Electrochimica Acta

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

No-fractional resampling or interpolation means that the rate of interpolation is not an integer and in a more general case neither rational.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

However, in the present paper we study the ((3+1))-D problem PK in a more general case when (boldsymbol{0< m<4/3}).

Boundary Value Problems

In a more general case, the harmonic analysis is used with neglect of the higher harmonics.

Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing

And that would be true, also in a more general case, of pulse amplitude modulation with pulses of non-zero width.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The goal of this study is consideration of these effects in a rather general case of analytical systems with modulated sinusoidal excitation.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in a general case" to introduce statements that hold true for the majority of instances, acknowledging that there might be exceptions. This helps to avoid making sweeping generalizations.

Common error

Avoid using "in a general case" when the statement is not broadly applicable or when specific conditions significantly alter the outcome. Using it inappropriately can lead to inaccuracies and misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a general case" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a statement, clarifying that the statement applies broadly but might not be universally true. It's used to introduce generalizations, as demonstrated by Ludwig, and acknowledges the possibility of exceptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

87%

Academia

11%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

News & Media

1%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a general case" serves as a crucial qualifier in writing, enabling the presentation of information that is typically true without making an absolute claim. According to Ludwig, this prepositional phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in academic and scientific contexts, to introduce generalizations. The phrase acknowledges potential exceptions, as its alternatives—"generally speaking", "in most cases", and "typically"—suggest. Use the phrase to communicate generalizations effectively, remembering to avoid overgeneralization, and remain conscious of cases where specific conditions may alter the outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

generally speaking

This alternative shifts the focus to the act of making a generalization.

in most cases

This specifies that the statement applies to the majority of instances.

typically

This alternative replaces the prepositional phrase with an adverb.

ordinarily

Similar to 'typically', this uses an adverb to indicate common occurrences.

as a rule

This emphasizes that the statement is a standard guideline or pattern.

in the usual course of events

This phrase elaborates on the common sequence of happenings.

under normal circumstances

This specifies that the statement is true when conditions are not unusual.

for the most part

This indicates that the statement is true in the majority of instances, though not necessarily all.

on average

This emphasizes that the statement describes the typical or expected value.

by and large

This suggests the statement is generally true, despite possible exceptions.

FAQs

How can I use "in a general case" in a sentence?

Use "in a general case" to introduce a statement that is typically true but might have exceptions. For example, "In a general case, studying regularly leads to better grades."

What's a good alternative to "in a general case"?

Alternatives include "generally speaking", "in most cases", or "typically", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify exceptions when using "in a general case"?

While not always necessary, acknowledging potential exceptions adds precision and strengthens your argument. If the exceptions are significant, it's best to address them directly.

What's the difference between "in a general case" and "in all cases"?

"In a general case" indicates that something is usually true but allows for exceptions. "In all cases" implies universality and leaves no room for exceptions. Therefore, they are not interchangeable.