Level 5

일반적

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Meaning and Usage

The adjective '일반적' (ilbanjeok) means 'general' or 'common' and is used to describe something that is typical or usual across many cases or people. It often appears in formal or academic contexts but is also common in everyday speech when discussing norms or common situations.

Common Collocations

  • 일반적인 경우 (general case): used when referring to the usual or typical situation.
  • 일반적인 생각 (common thought): refers to a widely held opinion.
  • 일반적인 방법 (general method): a standard or usual way of doing something.

Nuances

Using '일반적' implies that what is being described is not exceptional or unique but rather fits within a common pattern or expectation. It can be used to contrast with special or exceptional cases.

Register and Politeness

'일반적' is neutral in politeness and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is often found in written language, such as reports, essays, or news articles.

Common Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '일반적' with '일반' (noun meaning 'general public' or 'ordinary people'). Remember that '일반적' is an adjective describing the nature of something, while '일반' is a noun.

Example Sentences

이 문제는 일반적으로 많은 사람들이 겪는 어려움입니다.

I munjeneun ilbanjeogeuro manheun saramdeuri gyeokneun eoryeoumiimnida.

This problem is a difficulty that many people generally experience.

일반적인 방법으로는 해결하기 어렵습니다.

Ilbanjeogin bangbeobeuroneun haegyeolhagi eoryeopseumnida.

It is difficult to solve with a general method.

그는 일반적인 사람들과는 다른 생각을 가지고 있다.

Geuneun ilbanjeogin saramdeulgwaneun dareun saenggageul gajigo itda.

He has different thoughts from ordinary people.