Translation guide
The English word "general" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: referring to something not specific or detailed (general idea, in general), a high-ranking military officer, and the sense of widespread or common. It also notes the phrase "in general" as a discourse marker.
Expressing that something is broad, not detailed, or applies to most cases.
general idea · general knowledge · in general terms
The most common and versatile adjective meaning 'general' or 'common'. Used for things that are typical or not specialized.
一般的な意見を聞かせてください。
Please give me your general opinion.
この本は一般的な読者向けです。
This book is for general readers.
Means 'overall' or 'across the board'. Emphasizes covering a whole area or field.
全般的な傾向としては、売り上げは伸びています。
As a general trend, sales are increasing.
A noun meaning 'outline' or 'summary'. Used for a general overview, often in formal or written contexts.
計画の概略を説明します。
I will explain the general outline of the plan.
Used as a discourse marker to introduce a statement that is true in most cases.
Adverbial form meaning 'generally' or 'in general'. Very common.
一般的に、日本の夏は蒸し暑いです。
Generally, Japanese summers are hot and humid.
A slightly more formal adverb meaning 'generally' or 'on the whole'.
概して、彼の作品は評価が高い。
Generally, his works are highly regarded.
Means 'mostly' or 'for the most part'. Often used when talking about people's opinions or predictions.
Referring to a general in the army, air force, or marines.
The standard word for a military general. Historically also used for shogun.
彼は陸軍の将軍です。
He is an army general.
Specifically refers to the rank of 'general' or 'admiral' in modern Japanese Self-Defense Forces and some other contexts.
Describing something that is prevalent or affects many people or things.
A noun meaning 'the general public' or 'common'. Often used in compounds like 一般の人 (ordinary people).
一般の人は入れません。
The general public cannot enter.
それは一般に知られている事実だ。
That is a generally known fact.
Means 'universal' or 'general' in the sense of being true everywhere. More philosophical.
The English word 'general' is often part of set phrases. Do not translate word-for-word. For example, 'general store' is not 一般的な店 but rather 雑貨店 (ざっかてん) or よろずや. 'General idea' is often 概要 (がいよう) or 大まかな考え (おおまかな かんがえ).
Both mean 'general', but 一般的 is more about what is common or typical, while 全般的 emphasizes covering all aspects or the whole scope. 全般的 is often used in reports or analyses.
彼は計画の概要を説明した。
He gave a general description of the plan.
Here 'general description' is naturally 概要 (がいよう) meaning 'outline' or 'summary'.
大方の予想では、彼が勝つだろう。
The general expectation is that he will win.
彼は海軍大将に昇進した。
He was promoted to admiral (general in the navy).
This is a general (universal) truth.