on general terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on general terms" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an agreement, agreement structure, or conditions that are outlined in a general way without going into specifics. For example, "The two sides agreed on general terms to move forward with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Edersheim has no direct relationship to the case, but agreed to speak with me on general terms.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

A very important distinction with respect to the use of general terms turns on whether their extensional or intensional attributes are in play; extension (also called denotation) designates the set of individuals to which a term applies, while intension (also called connotation) describes the set of attributes which define the term.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yonhap TV, a government-owned news channel here, said the talks would also include a number of topics agreed on in general terms in the summit meeting of June 2000 between President Kim Dae Jung and the North Korean leader, Kim Jong Il.

The New York Times

Though the numbers from rival houses tend to vary, what the firms can seem to agree on in general terms is that Android has a bigger piece of the overall smartphone market worldwide, and they're expecting that trend to continue this year.

TechCrunch

Because what in fact has been happening for 34 years, and is happening now, is that there is an overwhelming international consensus on the general terms of a diplomatic resolution and the US is blocking it.

Huffington Post

Beyond rainbow-ladder truncation, satisfaction of this identity can be achieved on more general terms and has been implemented throughout light-hadron studies of the past years in this approach, e.g. [62 66,73 75].

Computer Physics Communications

On more general terms, given the extensive opportunity for homology-based recombination provided by the amplicons, it can be envisaged that the contribution of NHEJ (or other non-homologous mechanisms) for AZFc variability may be marginal.

Human Reproduction Update

IT HASN'T got to the stage of taxi drivers demanding a crackdown on tier-one capital, but in general terms the world agrees that banks need to be regulated until they weep.

The Economist

Diplomats say the Security Council, which is planning to discuss the Mideast crisis in general terms on Wednesday, is unlikely to act anytime soon on the Palestinians' request.

The New York Times

Few diplomats here were willing to comment in anything but general terms on the specifics of the draft.

The New York Times

The head of Iran's atomic energy agency, Fereydoon Abbasi, spoke about the transfer in general terms on Monday to an official Iranian news service.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on general terms" when you want to indicate an agreement or discussion happened without delving into the specifics. This is particularly useful when summarizing discussions or outlining preliminary agreements.

Common error

Avoid using "on general terms" when clarity and precision are required. If specific details are crucial for understanding or implementation, provide those details instead of relying on generalities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on general terms" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. It indicates the manner in which something is discussed, agreed upon, or understood. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes a lack of specificity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on general terms" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that an agreement, discussion, or understanding is broad and lacks specific details. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and acceptable in written English. While not exceedingly common, it appears in a variety of reputable sources, including news outlets, scientific publications, and encyclopedias. When writing, use "on general terms" to signal a preliminary agreement or a discussion that hasn't yet delved into specifics. However, be mindful to provide more detail if clarity is paramount. Related phrases like "in a general way" or "without going into detail" can be used as alternatives depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a general way

Indicates a discussion or agreement that lacks specific details.

generally speaking

Introduces a statement that is true in most cases but not necessarily in every instance.

without going into detail

Emphasizes the absence of detailed examination or explanation.

in broad strokes

Focuses on describing something without getting into specific details.

in outline form

Highlights the structure or summary, omitting intricate details.

in principle

Implies agreement on a concept, though specific implementation may vary.

on a high level

Describes something from a bird's eye view.

in summary

Refers to a brief overview, avoiding an extensive explanation.

in its broadest sense

Highlights the most inclusive interpretation of a term or idea.

superficially

Implies a lack of depth or thoroughness.

FAQs

How can I use "on general terms" in a sentence?

You can use "on general terms" to describe an agreement or understanding that is not detailed or specific. For example, "The parties agreed "on general terms" to proceed with the negotiation."

What does "on general terms" mean?

"On general terms" means that something is agreed upon or discussed in a broad, non-specific way, without addressing the finer details.

Which is correct, "on general terms" or "in general terms"?

Both "on general terms" and "in general terms" are correct and convey similar meanings. "In general terms" is slightly more common, but both are acceptable.

What are some alternatives to saying "on general terms"?

You can use alternatives such as "in a general way", "without going into detail", or "in broad strokes" to convey a similar meaning.