大概
Meanings
Describes what is true in most cases or as a general rule. Often used as a sentence adverb.
I'm usually at home on Sundays.
He is generally late.
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', adverb, noun
most; almost all; nearly all
Used before nouns with の or as an adverb to mean 'the majority of' or 'almost everything'. Often interchangeable with ほとんど.
Most people know that story.
Most of the work is done.
Refers to the essential points or summary of something. Often used in the phrase 大概を言う or 大概をつかむ.
Please tell me the gist of the story.
noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', adverb
moderation; not overdoing it; staying within bounds
Used in the set phrase 大概にする (to be moderate, to not go too far). Often as a warning or admonishment.
See also: 大概にする
Don't overdo the jokes.
You'd better go easy on the alcohol.
Expresses a high degree of probability. Slightly more literary or formal than たぶん.
He will probably come.
Used to emphasize degree. Often found in negative or evaluative contexts, e.g., 大概ひどい.
It's really hot today.
Usage patterns
- 大概の〈人〉は〈動詞〉most people do ~
Most people know this movie.
- 大概〈事〉だろうit's probably the case that ~
He'll probably be late, as usual.
- 〈事〉の大概をつかむto grasp the gist of ~
I was able to grasp the gist of the story.
- 大概〈形容詞〉quite/considerably ~
This homework is pretty difficult.
- 大概は〈事〉usually, ~ is the case
I usually commute by train.
Expressions
- 大概にするstay within bounds; not go too far; not get carried away