adjective

general

Translation

general, common, widespread, general (military rank)

This is a general guide to the city.

I have a general idea of what to do.

The general gave the order to attack.

a general ((noun)) affecting most things It's a general rule with few exceptions.

in general usually, in most situations In general, I prefer tea to coffee.

((a/the)) general a high-ranking military officer The general inspected the troops.

Synonyms: (adj) common, widespread; (noun) commander. Antonyms: (adj) specific, particular

From Latin 'generalis' (relating to a kind), from 'genus' (kind, type).

Think of 'general' as covering a whole 'genus' or group, not a specific part. A military 'general' commands a whole group of soldiers.