General

General is a term with several related but distinct senses in English. As an adjective, it refers to something broad, widespread, nonspecific, or applicable to a large number of cases, as in general knowledge, general guidelines, or in general terms. It stands in contrast to particular, specific, or individual. General can also denote a broad category or class, or the overall arrangements, rather than the parts.

From the Latin generalis, from genus, meaning race, kind, or class, the word entered English in the Middle Ages and later expanded to many figurative senses.

In grammar or philosophy, a general term or universal stands for concepts that apply to many objects rather than a single instance. In logic, generalization is the process of inferring a general statement from specific cases.

As a noun, general is a high-ranking military officer in many armed forces, typically in charge of a large formation or theater. Ranks in many countries include general, lieutenant general, major general, and brigadier general, though naming and insignia vary. The United States uses four-star general for the top rank, with five-star ranks such as General of the Army used historically during wartime. In the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries, brigadier is a one-star rank, while general is the highest standard rank.

The term also appears in everyday expressions, such as "in general," meaning overall or broadly speaking, and in compound terms like general purpose, general education, or general election, where it indicates broad participation or broad applicability.