we generally do

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we generally do" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a common practice or behavior that is typically followed by a group or organization. Example: "In our department, we generally do our best to meet deadlines and support each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Context clearly matters: Mergers and acquisitions work probably generates bills equally as large (we generally don't know, since M.&A.

The New York Times

When we really want to learn something, we generally do.

The Guardian

Yet we're expected to swallow this idea, and we generally do.

The Guardian

If the address is correct, and the people still live there, we generally do.

The New York Times

"We generally do not fund research focused on the potential beneficial medical effects of marijuana".

The New York Times

Say what you like about Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber – we generally do – but you can't say that he doesn't fly in the face of popular opinion.

The Guardian

Steve Dowling, an Apple spokesman, said the company "buys smaller technology companies all the time, and we generally do not comment on our purpose or plans".

The New York Times - Tech

"Apple buys smaller technology companies from time to time," said Kristin Huguet, an Apple spokeswoman, "and we generally do not discuss our purpose or plans".

The New York Times

The company said on Twitter that as part of its security policy, "we generally do not comment on specific threats or actions taken against our systems".

The New York Times

The company "buys smaller technology companies from time to time, and we generally do not discuss our purpose or plans", it told the Wall Street Journal.

Independent

HOUSE AND HOOD After Pilates we generally do things around the house, like gardening, cleaning and futzing, and then things in the neighborhood.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we generally do", ensure the context clearly defines the "we" being referred to. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "we generally do" when the action is not truly representative of the group. Quantify the extent of the practice if possible to maintain accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we generally do" functions as a descriptor of common practice or habit within a group. It implies a customary action, as supported by Ludwig AI's analysis of numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we generally do" is a phrase used to describe common practices within a group, with Ludwig AI identifying it as grammatically correct and frequently used. The phrase is best suited for neutral contexts, as it is mainly used in news media. While seemingly interchangeable with phrases such as "we usually do" or "we typically do", nuances in meaning can make one a stronger choice than another in a specific context. It is important to ensure that the action described is genuinely representative of the group to avoid overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we typically do

Replaces "generally" with "typically", indicating a standard practice.

we usually do

Substitutes "generally" with "usually", suggesting a customary action.

we commonly do

Uses "commonly" instead of "generally", emphasizing the frequent occurrence of an action.

we often do

Replaces "generally" with "often", indicating a frequent but not necessarily universal practice.

we tend to do

Uses "tend to" instead of "generally", suggesting a predisposition or inclination to act in a certain way.

we are inclined to do

Replaces "generally do" with "are inclined to do", indicating a preference or tendency.

it is our general practice to

Rephrases as a statement of general practice, adding formality.

our standard procedure is to

Emphasizes that the action is a standard procedure or protocol.

we make it a practice to

Highlights that the action is something deliberately done as a matter of habit.

as a rule, we do

States the action as a rule, indicating a regular occurrence.

FAQs

How can I use "we generally do" in a sentence?

Use "we generally do" to describe common practices or habits within a group. For instance, "In our company, "we generally do" a team meeting every Monday morning".

What's the difference between "we generally do" and "we usually do"?

While both phrases indicate common actions, "we generally do" suggests a broader trend or custom, while "we usually do" implies more of a routine. They are often interchangeable, but consider the nuance of the context.

Are there any formal alternatives to "we generally do"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "it is our general practice to", or "our standard procedure is to". These options are better suited for professional or academic writing.

Is it always appropriate to use "we generally do"?

No, it's essential to ensure the statement is accurate and reflects the actual practices of the group being referred to. Avoid overgeneralization by providing specific examples or quantifying the frequency of the action.