largely speaking

USAGE SUMMARY

"largely speaking" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to introduce a generalization or summarize a larger concept. Example: Largely speaking, humans are social creatures who seek connections and relationships with others. In this sentence, "largely speaking" is used to introduce a general statement about humans as a whole. It can also be used to summarize a larger idea, such as in the following example: Example: Largely speaking, the conference was a success, with attendees expressing satisfaction with the speakers and topics covered. In this sentence, "largely speaking" summarizes the overall experience of the conference.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Largely speaking, that's what he does.

The New Yorker

"Largely speaking, we bet on new drugs," he said.

The New York Times

"I think these arguments are best won largely speaking by open debate.

The Guardian

In fact, records going back four years suggest the activities of Atlantic Bridge were largely speaking events, in the main led by the charity's founder chairman, Fox.

The Guardian

There would appear to be no limitations as yet with regard to what these two musicians can achieve as long as they stick within the parameters of what they seem to want to do, which is, largely speaking, to make simply thrilling rock'n'roll and blow away festival crowds next summer.

The Guardian - Music

I know that I'm largely speaking from a games perspective here, but I feel the same pattern is repeating everywhere.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Those users have made their choices; their social media hours are largely spoken for.

Harvard Business Review

Despite the split, Mr. Sharp of the chamber says the financial industry largely speaks with one voice on Dodd-Frank.

The New York Times

It was not Western drama that sparked the burgeoning of popular theatre, though these plays were largely spoken dramas interspersed with music and dances.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The population of roughly 50,000 largely speaks the native Ossetian tongue and maintains its traditions of homemade wine and salty cheese.

The Washington Post

While Republicans have largely spoken with one voice in running down Obama, congressional Democrats have long been weak supporters of his agenda.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "largely speaking" to introduce a summary or generalization when you want to convey an overall impression that may have some exceptions or nuances.

Common error

Avoid using "largely speaking" to make statements that are definitively false or misleading. Ensure your generalization is reasonably accurate and acknowledges potential exceptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "largely speaking" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause or sentence to indicate that the statement is a generalization or an overall assessment. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it introduces a broad perspective, allowing for exceptions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "largely speaking" is a common adverbial phrase used to introduce a generalization or overall perspective. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's a grammatically correct and useful way to frame statements that might have exceptions. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Science, and has a neutral register, making it suitable for various writing styles. Remember to use it responsibly and avoid overgeneralizations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

generally speaking

This alternative is directly interchangeable, emphasizing a broad generalization.

broadly speaking

Similar in meaning, this phrase also highlights a general overview or perspective.

in general terms

This phrase offers a slightly more formal way to introduce a generalization.

on the whole

This alternative emphasizes a comprehensive view, taking everything into consideration.

by and large

This idiom is very similar in meaning, suggesting a general truth with possible exceptions.

for the most part

This phrase indicates that something is mainly true, but not entirely.

in most cases

This emphasizes that the statement applies to a majority of situations.

as a rule

This alternative presents a statement as a typical or common occurrence.

chiefly

This alternative refers to the main or most important aspect of something.

primarily

Similar to 'chiefly', but focuses on the principal factor or reason.

FAQs

How can I use "largely speaking" in a sentence?

Use "largely speaking" to introduce a generalization or summary. For example: "Largely speaking, the project was a success."

What's a good alternative to "largely speaking"?

Alternatives include "generally speaking", "broadly speaking", or "on the whole", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "largely speaking"?

No, ensure the generalization you're making is reasonably accurate and consider whether it's necessary to acknowledge any exceptions.

What's the difference between "largely speaking" and "strictly speaking"?

"Largely speaking" introduces a generalization, while "strictly speaking" introduces a statement that is technically accurate but might not reflect practical realities.