Want to say by and large differently? Here are other words for by and large and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of by and large
The primary meaning of "by and large" is to indicate that something is true or happens most of the time, but not always.
Etymology of by and large
The phrase "by and large" originated in the 17th century from sailing terminology, where "by" referred to the direction of the wind and "large" meant having the wind behind the ship, making it sail more efficiently.
Over time, the phrase evolved to mean "on the whole" or "generally," indicating that something is mostly true or applies in most cases.
Synonyms
generally
mostly
on the whole
largely
for the most part
in general
typically
usually
normally
commonly
ordinarily
predominantly
mainly
chiefly
primarily
overall
all in all
by and large
on balance
in the main
to a great extent
to a large degree
substantially
considerably
extensively
broadly
widely
usually
ordinarily
habitually
customarily
traditionally
conventionally
routinely
regularly
frequently
often
mostly
ordinarily
commonly
generally speaking
as a rule
as a whole
in most cases
in most respects
in the majority of cases
Definitions
- Used to indicate that something is generally true, but with some exceptions or allowances.
- * Used to convey that a statement or situation is mostly or largely, but not entirely, the case.
Usage Examples
- By and large, the new policy has been well-received by the employees.
- * The company has been successful by and large, with only a few minor setbacks.
- * By and large, the weather in this region is mild and pleasant.
Antonyms
rarely
seldom
occasionally
infrequently
exceptionally
unusually
extraordinarily
uniquely
exceptionally
aberrantly
atypically
uncommonly
unusually
seldom
hardly ever
almost never
scarcely
barely
rarely
infrequently
exceptionally
extraordinarily
aberrantly
uniquely