全般
Meanings
1
Refers to the entirety of something, often used with nouns like 分野, 傾向, or 状況 to mean 'the whole field' or 'overall trend'.
This problem concerns society as a whole.
Overall, this year's performance is good.
2
as a whole; in general; at large
Used as a suffix after a noun to mean 'the whole of ...' or '... in general'. Common in formal or written contexts.
This law applies to the public at large.
We discuss education in general.
Usage patterns
- 〈事〉全般にわたるto span the whole of ~; to cover ~ across the board
This problem is a serious issue that spans across society as a whole.
- 〈事〉全般についてregarding ~ in general; concerning the whole of ~
I asked an expert for their opinion on the economy in general.
- 〈事〉全般に詳しいwell-versed in ~ as a whole
He is knowledgeable about IT technology in general.