6 synonyms and better words for “generally,” each with its precise meaning and an example so you pick the one that actually fits, not just the nearest match.
In a general or wide-ranging sense, without focusing on specific details.
“Broadly speaking, the new policy favored those who had invested early.”
Best for: Works well in analytical writing or speech when softening a sweeping claim.
For the most part; as the strongest or most common element in a situation.
“The crowd was predominantly made up of young professionals clutching coffee cups.”
Best for: Ideal for academic or journalistic writing where nuance and precision matter.
On the whole; taking everything into account.
“By and large, the expedition was a success, despite the broken compass.”
Best for: Conversational yet polished; suits essays, opinion pieces, and spoken commentary.
In a broader or more emphatic form; as a magnified or universal pattern.
“His personal failings were the failings of his generation, writ large.”
Best for: Best in literary or rhetorical writing where dramatic weight is desired.
Considering all aspects together; in general terms.
“On the whole, the harvest was better than anyone had dared to hope.”
Best for: Elegant and understated; suits formal essays, speeches, and careful prose.
In a universal or all-encompassing manner, applicable across wide variety.
“She catholically absorbed influences from jazz, folk, and baroque into her compositions.”
Best for: Rare and striking; best reserved for literary or scholarly writing where breadth is the point.
Wordsmith finds curated synonyms for any word, free to try.
Try Wordsmith FreeStrong alternatives to "generally" include broadly, predominantly, by and large. Each carries a slightly different shade of meaning, so pick the one that fits your sentence.
Beyond the obvious choices, try writ large, on the whole, catholically. These read as more precise and less generic than "generally".
"generally" is common enough that it can read as filler. Swapping in a more specific alternative usually makes the sentence sharper and more clearly your own.