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Justin
What's the difference between "general" an "generic"?

Can these two words interchange each other? If not, what's the right usage?

Aug 5, 2015 11:10 PM
Comments · 1
1

No, they are completely different. "General" is a commonly used word; "generic" is rare.

"General" has a lot of different meanings, but as an adjective it means "wide," "covering everything," "including everything."

"The old-time general store sold everything--food, clothing, and hardware."

"In general, the United States has a temperate climate, but there are many exceptions."

"Massachusetts General Hospital treats everything; the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute specializes in oncology."

 

"Generic" means "the plainest and most ordinary of its kind." Often, it means "lacking a brand name." 

"Don't pay extra for brand-name aspirin; aspirin is aspirin; just buy the cheapest generic aspirin."

 

 

August 6, 2015