Gjithshëm

Gjithshëm is an Albanian term that functions as both an adverb and an adjective. As an adverb, it means generally, in general terms, or overall. As an adjective, it means general or universal, used to describe broad characteristics or concepts that apply across cases rather than to a specific instance.

Etymology: The word derives from the Albanian root ndërgjithë? No; the word comes from the root "gjithë" meaning all, with the suffix "-shëm," which forms adjectives and adverbs indicating a manner or quality. It is related to compounds such as përgjithshëm (in general) and gjithësor (general, universal).

Usage: In writing and speech, gjithshëm is used to express generalization or broad applicability. It can appear at the beginning of a sentence to frame a statement, or as part of phrases like në përgjithshëm or përgjithësisht (more formal equivalents). In formal Albanian, përgjithësisht is often preferred for “generally”; gjithshëm remains common in everyday language and in concise expressions. The distinction between gjithshëm and its relatives centers on nuance: gjithshëm emphasizes generality, while përgjithshëm and përgjithësisht convey a more explicit general rule.

See also: përgjithshëm, gjithësor, përgjithësisht.