Meaning · adjective
general
- overall
In a sentence
In generale, preferisco il treno alla macchina.
In general, I prefer the train to the car.
Hai capito l'idea generale del film?
Did you understand the general idea of the movie?
Non ho una risposta generale per tutti.
I don't have a general answer for everyone.
Word forms (4)
| Word | Word forms |
|---|---|
| generale | masculine · singular |
| generale | feminine · singular |
| generali | masculine · plural |
| generali | feminine · plural |
Usage notes
- Use 'generale' for broad, non-specific contexts; 'comune' implies shared by many. 'Un'opinione generale' vs. 'un problema comune'.
- Always agree in gender/number: 'generale' (m/s), 'generali' (m/p), 'generale' (f/s), 'generali' (f/p).
- Avoid overusing it for 'main' or 'primary'; 'principale' often fits better. 'La ragione principale' not 'generale'.