it generally takes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it generally takes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate the typical duration or effort required for a particular task or process. Example: "For most people, it generally takes about an hour to complete the exam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

While some improvement is possible early in treatment, it generally takes weeks for an antidepressant to have its full effect.

Core Evidence

Following a final medical evaluation, it generally takes two to four months to get a decision.

The New Yorker

It generally takes 67 votes a two-thirds majority to change Senate rules.

The New York Times

Because that is longer than it generally takes by car, rail is especially uncompetitive.

The Economist

It generally takes 8 to 10 weeks to complete sales of houses under contract.

The New York Times

For federal loans, it generally takes about nine months of missed payments.

The New York Times

It generally takes Bourdain about a week of frantic work on location to film each episode.

The New Yorker

It generally takes at least three years to make a top-notch game.

The New York Times - Arts

It generally takes about two tons of sand to yield one barrel of oil.

The New York Times

Even after a peaceful revolution, it generally takes half a decade for any type of stable regime to consolidate.

The New York Times

Electronic publishing is much quicker than conventional publishing (it generally takes at least a year to get a manuscript printed).

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure the context is clear and the unit of measurement (time, resources, etc.) is explicitly stated. For instance, "It generally takes three bundles of shingles to cover 100 square feet."

Common error

Avoid using "it generally takes" without considering specific factors that might affect the outcome. Saying "It generally takes six weeks to harvest spinach" is potentially misleading because some environmental factors can either accelerate or decelerate the process. Ensure a more detailed explanation whenever possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it generally takes" serves as an introductory expression used to indicate the typical duration, effort, or resources required for a specific task or process. Ludwig AI validates this function through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

28%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it generally takes" is a versatile expression used to convey typical durations, efforts, or resource needs, as affirmed by Ludwig. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it helps set realistic expectations. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability. For precision, always specify the unit of measurement and consider potential influencing factors to prevent overgeneralization. You can use alternatives such as "it usually takes" or "it typically requires" for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it usually takes

Replaces "generally" with "usually", indicating a common occurrence but with potentially slightly less emphasis on broad applicability.

it tends to take

Replaces "generally takes" with a phrase that suggests a tendency, implying a slightly weaker expectation.

it typically requires

Shifts from time to necessity, focusing on what is typically needed rather than the time involved.

it commonly needs

Emphasizes the need or requirement aspect rather than just the time duration.

it often requires

Focuses on the frequency of requirement rather than the expected duration.

it normally needs

Suggests that something is needed under normal circumstances.

it regularly necessitates

Uses a more formal tone to highlight the necessity of something on a regular basis.

it customarily involves

Focuses on the standard steps or elements involved in a process.

it standardly demands

Highlights that something regularly or by default demands an element.

it frequently entails

Indicates that something often involves or includes specific actions or conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "it generally takes" in a sentence?

Use "it generally takes" to describe the typical amount of time, effort, or resources needed for something. For example, "It generally takes 2-4 days to close a loan."

What are some alternatives to "it generally takes"?

You can use alternatives like "it usually takes", "it typically takes", or "it commonly needs depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "it generally takes" or should I use another tense?

The phrase "it generally takes" is correct for present or ongoing situations. For past situations, use "it generally took". For example, "In the past, "it generally took longer" to process applications."

What's the difference between "it generally takes" and "it always takes"?

"It generally takes" implies a common but not guaranteed occurrence, while "it always takes" suggests that something is invariably necessary. The former allows for exceptions, whereas the latter does not.