is generally true

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is generally true" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that a statement or idea is mostly accurate or applicable in most situations, but may have exceptions. Example: "While there are many factors to consider, it is generally true that regular exercise contributes to better health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is generally true.

The New York Times - Sports

This is generally true.

The Economist

That is generally true for most individual investors.

The New York Times

The same is generally true of South Asia and Africa.

The New York Times

The same is generally true of Mr. Talabani.

The New York Times

(The same is generally true of digital booths).

The New York Times - Arts

This pattern is generally true of Western democracies.

The New York Times

This is generally true of the Fi in equation (93).

Encyclopedia Britannica

As is generally true of revolutions in taste, we stumbled into the recognition of its importance.

The Guardian - Books

This is generally true of Cairo, where about two-thirds of the population lives in ashwa'iyat.

The New Yorker

In the case of Mr. Schlesinger's recipes, this is generally true.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is generally true", consider adding a qualifier to acknowledge potential exceptions. For example: "While this is generally true, there are specific situations where it doesn't apply."

Common error

Avoid using "is generally true" as a substitute for concrete evidence. Always ensure there's a reasonable basis for the statement, or you risk making an unsubstantiated claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is generally true" functions as an evaluative statement, qualifying a preceding claim. It serves to express a degree of certainty or accuracy, acknowledging potential exceptions while affirming overall validity. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is generally true" is a versatile phrase used to express that a statement is typically accurate but not universally applicable. According to Ludwig, the phrase functions as an evaluative statement. It's frequently found in news, media, and scientific writing, suggesting a neutral register. When using this phrase, it's advisable to acknowledge potential exceptions to avoid overgeneralization. Consider alternatives such as "is broadly accurate" or "is largely correct" to fine-tune your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is broadly accurate

Focuses on the overall accuracy with less emphasis on potential exceptions.

is largely correct

Highlights the substantial correctness of a statement, suggesting minor inaccuracies may exist.

is mostly valid

Emphasizes the validity across different situations, with room for specific cases where it might not apply.

is usually the case

Indicates a common occurrence or situation, implying it is not always true.

holds true in most instances

Stresses the applicability in the majority of situations, allowing for exceptions.

is true for the most part

Highlights the predominant truth, suggesting that some aspects may not be entirely accurate.

is accurate on the whole

Focuses on overall accuracy, even if minor details might be inaccurate.

is typically correct

Highlights common correctness, but doesn't discard potential exceptions.

generally applies

Implies that the statement has broad application but may not be universal.

is often right

Similar to generally true, but with less emphasis on the validity.

FAQs

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

Use "is generally true" to express that something is accurate or applicable in most cases but may have exceptions. For example: "It "is generally true" that exercise is beneficial, but some conditions may require modified routines."

What's the difference between "is generally true" and "is always true"?

"Is generally true" indicates a statement holds in most situations but allows for exceptions. "Is always true" implies a universal truth without exceptions.

Which is a better phrase, "is generally true" or "is often the case"?

Both ""is generally true"" and "is often the case" are acceptable. "Is generally true" focuses on accuracy, while "is often the case" emphasizes frequency. The best choice depends on the intended nuance.

What can I say instead of "is generally true"?

You can use alternatives like "is broadly accurate", "is largely correct", or "is mostly valid" depending on the context.