gemeinhin
generally
Expresses that something is generally known, usual, or the case; in general, usually.
EXAMPLE
Kaffee wird gemeinhin als anregendes Getränk betrachtet.
Coffee is generally regarded as a stimulating drink.
gemeinhin
generally
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
The adverb 'gemeinhin' (generally) is made up of 'gemein' and 'hin'. Here, 'gemein' does not mean 'mean' or 'nasty', but has its older meaning of 'general' or 'usual'.
EXAMPLE
Diese Regel ist gemeinhin bekannt.
This rule is generally known.
Sentence position
'Gemeinhin' (generally) can be placed flexibly in a sentence. It often stands at the beginning of the sentence in position 1, which triggers inversion: the verb moves to position 2. But it can also appear within the sentence.
EXAMPLE
Gemeinhin geht man davon aus, dass die Erde rund ist.
Generally, people assume that the Earth is round.
Register
'Gemeinhin' (generally) belongs more to written language or a formal style. In everyday language, other words such as 'normalerweise' (normally) or 'im Allgemeinen' (in general) are often used.
EXAMPLE
Der Klimawandel wird gemeinhin als eine der größten globalen Herausforderungen angesehen.
Climate change is generally regarded as one of the greatest global challenges.
Compare with
gemeinhin vs allgemein
general
Allgemein and gemeinhin can both express that something applies in many cases or is usually the case. Allgemein indicates a broad assessment, while gemeinhin additionally points to a widespread public view or customary practice. Use gemeinhin when what is usually known or accepted is being emphasized.
gemeinhin
Gemeinhin gilt regelmäßiges Üben beim Sprachenlernen als besonders hilfreich.
Regular practice is generally considered particularly helpful when learning a language.
allgemein
Allgemein gilt, dass regelmäßiges Üben beim Sprachenlernen hilft.
In general, regular practice helps when learning a language.
In real life
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