in general however

USAGE SUMMARY

"in general however" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to indicate that what is being said is generally true, but that there is an exception or an alternative view that will be discussed. For example: "In general, laws are designed to protect the public. However, there are cases where the law has been proven to be ineffective."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In general, however, ureaplasma infections are mild.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In general, however, the game is clean.

The New York Times - Sports

In general, however, only minor substitution occurs.

Britannica

In general, however, it was well received.

Britannica

In general, however, celebrities sip tea elsewhere.

The New York Times

In general, however, she has encouraged the redevelopment project.

The New York Times - Arts

In general, however, she coöperates with the police.

The New Yorker

In general, however, she had liked the PM's speech.

The Guardian

In general, however, the composer will aim for variety.

The Guardian - Books

In general, however, textile protectionism seems to me irrational.

The New Yorker

In general, however, pager codes are usually reserved for friends.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using “in general however,” ensure that the contrasting statement is clearly linked to the general point to avoid confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "in general however" too frequently in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful; vary your transitional phrases.

Linguistic Context

Adverbial phrases like "in general however" serve to modify the entire sentence. Ludwig AI suggests that this phrase acts as a transitional element, indicating a contrast or exception to a preceding general statement, as seen in numerous examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in general however" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adverbial phrase that serves as a transitional element, signaling a contrast or exception to a preceding general statement. According to Ludwig AI, it effectively introduces nuance and precision by acknowledging both a general trend or rule and its exceptions. The phrase is versatile and appropriate for both formal and informal writing, particularly in news, encyclopedic content, and scientific writing. While it's a valuable tool for adding complexity and balance to arguments, avoid overuse to maintain clarity and impact. Consider alternatives like "generally speaking though" or "on the whole though" to enhance writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Generally speaking though

Replaces "in general" with "generally speaking" and "however" with "though", maintaining a similar level of formality.

On the whole though

Uses "on the whole" instead of "in general", offering a slightly more concise alternative.

In most cases though

Specifies a focus on typical instances, adding a nuance of frequency.

Typically however

Shortens the phrase while retaining the sense of a general rule with an exception.

As a rule however

Replaces "in general" with "as a rule", emphasizing the conventional nature of the statement.

For the most part however

Emphasizes that the statement is true in the majority of instances, but not necessarily all.

Ordinarily however

Suggests that what follows is the normal course of events, contrasted by an exception.

By and large however

Offers a more idiomatic substitute for "in general", indicating a broad overview with exceptions.

In general terms though

Adds an emphasis on broad considerations, setting up a specific contrast.

Notwithstanding this however

Introduces a legalistic or formal tone, highlighting an exception despite what has been said.

FAQs

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

Use "in general however" to introduce a contrast or exception to a general statement. For example, "In general however, there are exceptions to this rule."

What are some alternatives to "in general however"?

Some alternatives include "generally speaking though", "on the whole though", or "typically however". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "in general however" formal or informal?

"In general however" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. It is widely used in news articles, academic papers, and general conversation.

What is the function of "in general however" in a sentence?

The primary function of "in general however" is to signal a shift from a general statement to a specific exception or contrasting point. It helps to refine and add complexity to an argument.