the general idea vs general idea

Both 'the general idea' and 'general idea' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'The general idea' is used when referring to a specific, particular general idea, while 'general idea' is used when speaking in a more general or abstract sense.

Last updated: March 25, 2024

the general idea

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to a specific, particular general idea.

This phrase is used when you want to specify a particular general idea among others. It is more specific and focused.

Examples:

The general idea behind the project is to promote sustainability.
Can you explain the general idea of the theory in simpler terms?

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But the general idea is that they all fit into this knowledge map.
That's the general idea, yes.
Well, the general idea is that certain phases of our life never really die.
The general idea here, by the way, is that we actually don't know our preferences that well.
I will not disguise my reservations, either, regarding the general idea, outlined by the rapporteur in his explanatory statement, to fundamentally restructure the tax systems by increasing indirect tax at the expense of direct tax.
It is thus clear that the Parliament is in favour of the general idea of the proposal but, importantly, that it should be considered for 2004 so that Parliament can be fully involved.
Crudely worded... ...but yes, that's the general idea.
That's the general idea, kid!
We reject the general idea of introducing biometric identifiers in identity documents for several reasons:
I did vote in favour of the motion for a resolution, as the general idea of cost efficiency in the EU is raised many times.
We reject the general idea of introducing biometric identifiers in identity documents for several reasons:
I voted in favour of the motion for a resolution as the general idea of cost efficiency in the EU is brought up.
I also agree with the general idea that underlies the two additional amendments that have been tabled in the House, Nos 9 and 10.
But the general idea that you could only - you could only really talk about things in that place that had some kind of experimental basis.
We think this is a Europe-wide priority and that is why we had to take account of scientific progress since the last directive in 1980 and why we approve of the general idea of having a new and improved proposal.
Who could disagree with the general idea of protecting wild animal species, some of which are in danger of extinction?
Allow me to sum it up as follows: it basically reflected Parliament's support for the general position, for the Commission's general concept, for the general idea.
underscores the importance of promoting the general idea of sustainable development through conservation, management of cultural assets and making the access to sites by all a natural part of the life of society.
The general idea behind a cod by-catch fishery is that, for as long as cod is not recovered, you do not target cod.
The general idea of the campaign was to move gradually towards the integrated management of solid waste by according priority to: -

Alternatives:

the main idea
the basic concept
the overarching theme
the fundamental notion
the principal concept

general idea

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when speaking in a more general or abstract sense.

This phrase is used when you want to talk about general ideas in a broad or abstract way without specifying a particular one.