noun
general newspaper; non-specialist press; lay publication
Refers to newspapers or press outlets aimed at the general public, as opposed to specialized trade or academic publications.
この研究は一般紙でも大きく取り上げられた。
This research was also covered extensively in the general press.
専門誌だけでなく一般紙にも記事を書いている。
I write articles not only for specialist magazines but also for general newspapers.
noun
standard paper; common paper
Refers to ordinary, everyday paper as opposed to special types like washi, art paper, or thermal paper. Less common than the press sense.
このプリンターは一般紙から厚紙まで対応している。
This printer can handle everything from standard paper to cardstock.
普通紙 is a more common term for 'plain paper' or 'standard paper', often used in printer settings. 一般紙 in the paper sense is less frequent and may sound slightly more formal.
Compound of 一般 (general, common) and 紙 (paper, newspaper). The meaning 'general newspaper' is the primary modern usage.