General describes something that applies broadly rather than specifically, or someone who commands an army.

When your teacher gives general instructions for an assignment, she's explaining the overall approach without diving into every tiny detail. A general store sells a wide variety of goods rather than specializing in one thing. If you have a general idea of how something works, you understand the basics but not necessarily all the specifics.

The word often contrasts with “specific” or “particular.” You might know the general area where your friend lives (somewhere near the library) without knowing the exact street address. A doctor who is a general practitioner treats many different kinds of health problems, while a specialist focuses on just one area, like hearts or bones.

In the military, a general is a high-ranking officer who commands large groups of soldiers. Famous generals like Dwight Eisenhower and Ulysses S. Grant led entire armies during wartime. The military rank connects to the other meaning: a general oversees the general strategy and big picture rather than individual battles.

When something happens in general, it means usually or most of the time. You might say, “In general, I enjoy math class,” meaning you like it overall even if some days are harder than others.