more generic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more generic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that is applicable to a wide range of circumstances or situations. For example: "The new software update allows the program to be more generic, offering users a wider range of customization options."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"But landmarks as a more generic term.

The New York Times

The guys are more generic.

The New York Times - Magazine

CNN's more generic news, however, has built-in vulnerabilities.

The New Yorker

The House protection is more limited and more generic.

The New York Times

The more generic the service is, the more price dominates.

The Guardian - Tech

These brand names don't stand in for more generic terms.

The New Yorker

At other times, the show's approach can feel more generic.

The New Yorker

This high-toned rhetoric is followed by more generic sloganeering.

The New York Times

The vernacular she is referring to is more generic seaside, however, than expressly Southern Californian.

The New York Times

And two more generic companies are waiting to introduce their versions of the pill.

The New York Times

Would it have killed them to have changed it to something more generic?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing options, use "more generic" to highlight the less specialized or uniquely designed choice. This clarifies that the item is suited for a broader range of uses.

Common error

Avoid using "more generic" when a simpler adjective like "general" or "common" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound repetitive or unnecessarily complex. Choose the word that most directly conveys the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more generic" functions as a comparative adjective, modifying a noun to indicate a lesser degree of specificity or distinctiveness. Ludwig examples show its use in contrasting levels of detail, like comparing "more generic news" to specialized reporting or contrasting "more generic seaside" to expressly Southern Californian styles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more generic" is a commonly used comparative adjective signifying a reduced level of specificity or detail. Ludwig highlights its frequent use across various domains, particularly News & Media and Science, suggesting a neutral to formal register. The phrase is grammatically sound, as affirmed by Ludwig AI, and serves the purpose of contrasting something less specific with something more tailored. When writing, ensure that "more generic" accurately reflects the intended meaning of broader applicability or reduced distinctiveness and consider whether a simpler term might suffice. Related phrases such as "less specific" or "more general" may offer suitable alternatives depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less specific

This alternative focuses on the lack of specificity, which is a core aspect of something being generic.

more general

This phrase is almost synonymous, differing only in the specific adjective used to describe the breadth of application.

broader in scope

This alternative emphasizes the extent of coverage or applicability.

less detailed

This phrase highlights the absence of fine-grained information, implying a wider, less precise application.

more universal

This suggests wider applicability and relevance across different situations or contexts.

more commonplace

This implies the subject is less distinctive and more frequently encountered.

more conventional

This suggests adherence to established norms and a lack of uniqueness.

more widespread

This focuses on the extensive distribution and commonality of something.

more typical

This suggests conformity to a standard type or pattern, lacking individual characteristics.

less distinctive

This emphasizes the absence of unique qualities that set something apart.

FAQs

How can I use "more generic" in a sentence?

You can use "more generic" to describe something that is less specific or detailed than something else. For example, "The company decided to use a "more generic logo" to appeal to a wider audience."

What is a synonym for "more generic"?

Synonyms for "more generic" include "more general", "less specific", and "broader in scope". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to be "more generic" or more specific?

Whether it's better to be "more generic" or more specific depends on the situation. A "more generic approach" might be useful when appealing to a broad audience, while specificity is often important for clarity and precision.

What's the difference between "more generic" and "more general"?

The terms "more generic" and "more general" are often used interchangeably. However, "more generic" can sometimes imply a lack of distinctiveness, whereas "more general" simply indicates a wider scope or applicability.