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HSK 2.0 Level 3+ HSK 3.0 Level 3+ 5 min read

一般来说 for “Generally Speaking”

Open a sentence with 一般来说 to say what is usually true in most cases.

Pattern

一般来说，+ general statement

一般来说 introduces something that is true in most cases, while leaving room for exceptions.

一般来说，早上坐地铁的人比较多。

When to use 一般来说 for “Generally Speaking”

一般来说 means “generally speaking” or “in most cases.” It usually opens the sentence, followed by a comma and a statement about what normally happens.

一般来说，孩子都喜欢吃甜的东西。

Generally speaking, children like sweet things.

一般来说，南方的冬天不太冷。

Generally speaking, winters in the south aren’t very cold.

一般来说，周末超市里人很多。

Generally speaking, supermarkets are crowded on weekends.

一般来说，学好一门外语需要很长时间。

Generally speaking, learning a foreign language well takes a long time.

Common traps

  • 一般来说 usually opens the sentence and is followed by a comma.
  • Don’t mix it up with 对……来说, which gives one person’s point of view.
  • 很一般 means “just so-so,” not “very general.”

Targeted drill

Practice this exact pattern before moving on.

一般来说，孩子 喜欢吃甜的东西

Generally speaking, children like sweet things
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