一般而言 (yī bān ér yán) — generally speaking, in general, as a rule

Definition

A formal written phrase meaning 'generally speaking,' used to introduce a broad generalization rather than a specific case. It is more bookish than 一般来说, which is the everyday spoken equivalent.

verb
generally speakingin generalas a rule

Examples

  • 一般而言
    yī bān ér yán, Dà chéng shì de shēng huó chéng běn gèng gāo.
    Generally speaking, the cost of living in big cities is higher.
  • 一般而言
    yī bān ér yán, Zǎo shuì zǎo qǐ duì shēn tǐ yǒu hǎo chù.
    Generally speaking, going to bed early and waking up early is good for your health.
  • 一般而言
    yī bān ér yán, Zhè ge fāng àn shì kě xíng de.
    Generally speaking, this plan is feasible.

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