it generally unfolds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it generally unfolds" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe how a situation or event typically develops or progresses over time. Example: "In most cases, the story begins with a conflict, and it generally unfolds through a series of challenges faced by the protagonist."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Here's how the planning process generally unfolds: Some six to 12 months in advance, a midlevel executive from HR, finance, strategy, marketing, or corporate communications is charged by the CEO or another top executive with planning the summit.

Harvard Business Review

The interrogations themselves generally unfold in one of two ways.

The New Yorker

What else could you see as a platform to challenge the Communist Party, but to oppose the foreigners who are "buying up Chinese resources"?… There has to be a period of generally unfolding democracy.

The New Yorker

We see it all as it unfolds, but remain powerless.

The New York Times

"My tweets generally don't attract that much attention and I've never really been that fussed about it, but it was bizarre watching it unfold during the day and provided some amusement during revision".

The Guardian

It generally is.

The New Yorker

It generally resembles iodine.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It generally improves bills".

BBC

But is it generally?

SEP

It generally does.

Huffington Post

"Now listen as it unfolds".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it generally unfolds" to describe processes, plans, or events where you want to convey a sense of typical development or progression.

Common error

While acceptable, "it generally unfolds" might sound slightly informal in highly academic or formal writing. Consider stronger, more precise verbs to describe the unfolding, like "progresses", "develops", or "evolves."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it generally unfolds" functions as a clause element, where "it" is the subject and "generally unfolds" is the predicate. The adverb "generally" modifies the verb "unfolds", indicating a typical or common manner of development, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it generally unfolds" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the typical progression of events or processes. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, the lack of examples suggests it might not be as common as other similar phrases. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context, ensuring it aligns with the desired level of formality. Consider alternatives like "it typically progresses" or "it usually happens" for variety or greater impact. Remember that using stronger verbs provides precision and avoids potential informality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it unfolds in most cases

Adds a qualifier about the prevalence of this unfolding.

it unfolds in a standard way

Highlights the conventional manner in which something progresses.

it typically progresses

Emphasizes the normal advancement or evolution of a situation.

it usually happens

Focuses on the typical occurrence of an event, rather than its detailed development.

it tends to develop

Indicates a natural inclination or tendency for events to unfold in a certain way.

it regularly evolves

Highlights the gradual development and change that occurs in a standard manner.

it usually comes about

Replaces "unfolds" with "comes about", suggesting how something happens or starts.

it commonly transpires

Uses a more formal word for 'happens', suggesting a usual occurrence.

it ordinarily occurs

Replaces "generally" with "ordinarily", suggesting a normal or expected event.

it follows a typical pattern

Shifts the focus to the predictability and regularity of the unfolding.

FAQs

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

Use "it generally unfolds" to describe the typical progression or development of an event or situation. For example, "The investigation "it generally unfolds" in stages, starting with evidence collection."

What are some alternatives to "it generally unfolds"?

Alternatives include "it typically progresses", "it usually happens", or "it commonly transpires", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is "it generally unfolds" too informal for academic writing?

While not strictly incorrect, "it generally unfolds" might be perceived as slightly informal in some academic contexts. Consider stronger verbs like "develops", "progresses", or "evolves" for greater precision and formality.

How does "it generally unfolds" differ from "it always unfolds"?

"It generally unfolds" implies a typical but not invariable progression, whereas "it always unfolds" suggests an unvarying and predictable sequence. The choice depends on whether there are exceptions to the unfolding process.