the general consensus is that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the general consensus is that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when summarizing the collective opinion or agreement of a group regarding a particular topic or issue. Example: "After much discussion, the general consensus is that we should proceed with the new marketing strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In fact, the general consensus is that's exactly what they avoid.

Huffington Post

The general consensus is that they can.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The general consensus is that Arsenal must sign a striker.

The Guardian - Sport

The general consensus is that "edited" here means "bowdlerized".

The New York Times - Books

The general consensus is that anything within about four hours can be considered local.

Cornell University

The general consensus is that self injury is emotionally unhealthy, but I don't understand how.

Columbia University

"The general consensus is that there's no turning back," he said.

The New York Times

"The general consensus is that it will attract the spectator," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

The general consensus is that it shouldn't kick down but punch up.

The New Yorker

The general consensus is that humans can tackle situations in two different ways.

MIT Technology Review

"And the general consensus is that we're seeing more of them," he added.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure that it truly reflects a widespread agreement supported by evidence. Avoid using it for contentious or speculative ideas.

Common error

Avoid using "the general consensus is that" when there isn't a broad agreement. Use phrases like "some believe" or "many suggest" if the view is not universally shared.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the general consensus is that" functions as a discourse marker or introductory phrase. It serves to introduce a statement that is purportedly based on a widespread agreement or common understanding. Ludwig examples confirm its role in presenting accepted viewpoints.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the general consensus is that" is a commonly used phrase to introduce ideas widely accepted across various domains. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and serves to signal agreement and establish credibility. It is frequently used in News & Media, Academia, and Science. When using this phrase, ensure the statement reflects a genuine widespread agreement to maintain accuracy and persuasive impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the prevailing view is that

Focuses on the dominant opinion, rather than explicit agreement.

the common understanding is that

Emphasizes shared knowledge, not necessarily active agreement.

it is widely believed that

Highlights widespread acceptance or belief.

the accepted wisdom is that

Implies a traditional or long-held belief.

the conventional wisdom suggests

Points to established or standard perspectives.

it is generally understood that

Focuses on widespread comprehension.

most people agree that

Indicates majority agreement, less formal.

the dominant narrative is that

Highlights a prevailing story or explanation.

the common perception is that

Focuses on how something is commonly viewed.

the prevailing sentiment is that

Emphasizes a common emotional response or feeling.

FAQs

What does "the general consensus is that" mean?

It means there's a widespread agreement or shared understanding about a particular topic or issue.

How can I use "the general consensus is that" in a sentence?

You can use it to introduce a widely accepted idea. For example, "The general consensus is that active learning improves student performance."

What are some alternatives to "the general consensus is that"?

You can use alternatives like "the prevailing view is that", "the common understanding is that", or "it is widely believed that".

Is it always accurate to say "the general consensus is that"?

Not always. Ensure that the statement truly reflects a widespread agreement. If there's significant disagreement, other phrases might be more appropriate.