generalmente
“generalmente” means “generally” in Spanish (in a general sense).
generally, usually
Also: in general, commonly
📝 In Action
Generalmente, el restaurante está lleno los sábados.
A2Generally, the restaurant is full on Saturdays.
¿Qué haces los fines de semana? Generalmente leo o salgo a caminar.
A1What do you do on weekends? I usually read or go for a walk.
Las tiendas pequeñas generalmente cierran a las ocho de la noche.
B1Small shops usually close at eight o'clock at night.
Generalmente, cuando viajas en avión, tienes que llegar con dos horas de antelación.
B2In general, when you travel by plane, you have to arrive two hours in advance.
🔀 Commonly Confused With
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: generalmente
Question 1 of 2
Which Spanish word is NOT a synonym for 'generalmente'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word comes from the Latin root *generalis* (meaning 'of or belonging to a kind') combined with the suffix *-mente*, which was originally the ablative form of the Latin noun *mens* (mind, intention). Over time, *-mente* evolved into the standard way to create adverbs of manner, effectively meaning 'in a general manner' or 'with a general mind'.
First recorded: Medieval Spanish
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'generalmente' exactly the same as 'por lo general'?
Yes, they are interchangeable in most situations. 'Generalmente' is a single word (an adverb), while 'por lo general' is a common phrase that functions the same way, meaning 'in general' or 'as a rule'.
Can I use 'generalmente' to describe something that happens every single time?
No. 'Generalmente' implies that something happens *most* of the time, but not always. If you mean 'always,' you should use 'siempre'.