is generally acceptable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is generally acceptable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is widely recognized or approved in a particular context or situation. Example: "In academic writing, using citations is generally acceptable to support your arguments."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Goff LJ wrote that the fundamental principle is that any person's body is inviolate, except in situations where the bodily contact "[falls] within a general exception embracing all physical contact which is generally acceptable in the ordinary conduct of daily life".

Wikipedia

In Los Angeles, it is generally acceptable to arrive fashionably late.

The New York Times - Sports

The bargain is generally acceptable to the insidious extent that the thrill of access outweighs the urge to reveal.

The New Yorker

Triple-glazed windows are usually used only in the coldest climates; otherwise, double-glazing is generally acceptable.

The New York Times

The security services appear to have decided that it is generally acceptable to write for a newspaper.

The New York Times

Although copying whole pages of work from other sites is frowned on by Web designers, it is generally acceptable to borrow font styles and colors.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

And the singers were generally acceptable.

The New York Times - Arts

Only one-third said interracial marriage was generally acceptable.

The New York Times

Corporate buck-passing has meant it's generally acceptable to abdicate responsibility.

The Guardian

Zoubida Mataoui, assistant director of the Moroccan National Tourism Office in New York, [phone], and www.tourisme-marocain.com, said typical vacation wear was generally acceptable, provided it was not too short or tight.

The New York Times - Travel

The most that can be attained at the Park, is to afford an opportunity for those recreations or entertainments that are generally acceptable.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the level of formality required in your writing. While "is generally acceptable" is versatile, more formal alternatives like "is widely accepted" might be preferable in academic or professional contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "is generally acceptable" without specifying the context or criteria for acceptability. For example, instead of saying "the method is generally acceptable", specify "the method is generally acceptable for preliminary research purposes".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is generally acceptable" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a subject as being widely or commonly approved or tolerated. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

14%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is generally acceptable" is a versatile and commonly used expression that conveys widespread approval or tolerance within a specific context. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. As the data shows, its use spans across various domains like science, news, wiki, and formal business, indicating its broad applicability. When using this phrase, it's important to provide enough context to clarify who or what finds it acceptable, avoiding overgeneralization. For more formal writing, alternatives like "is widely accepted" may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is widely accepted

Replaces "generally" with "widely", suggesting broad rather than usual acceptance.

is commonly approved

Substitutes "acceptable" with "approved", implying endorsement or sanction.

is largely agreed upon

Changes to a passive construction emphasizing agreement rather than acceptance.

is considered standard

Indicates conformity to an established norm or expectation.

is deemed appropriate

Focuses on suitability or fittingness for a particular purpose or situation.

is viewed favorably

Highlights a positive reception or outlook towards something.

meets the required standards

Emphasizes compliance with specific criteria or benchmarks.

is permissible under normal circumstances

Adds a condition of normalcy, suggesting acceptance is contingent.

aligns with prevailing norms

Emphasizes adherence to social or cultural norms.

falls within the bounds of what is tolerated

Suggests a limit or boundary within which something is considered acceptable.

FAQs

How can I use "is generally acceptable" in a sentence?

You can use "is generally acceptable" to indicate that something is widely recognized or approved within a specific context. For example, "Using citations in academic writing is generally acceptable".

What are some alternatives to "is generally acceptable"?

You can use alternatives like "is widely accepted", "is commonly approved", or "is largely agreed upon" depending on the context.

Is "is generally acceptable" formal or informal?

"Is generally acceptable" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but for academic or highly professional settings, a more formal alternative such as "is widely accepted" might be preferable.

When is it appropriate to use "is generally acceptable"?

It's appropriate when you want to convey that a practice, standard, or behavior is typically approved or tolerated by a majority within a specific group or field. Ensure you provide enough context to make the scope of "generally acceptable" clear.