C1adjective 2K

Generic

UK /["/dʒəˈnerɪk/"]/ US /["/dʒəˈnerɪk/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

shared by, including or typical of a whole group of things; not specific

Listen to definition

In simple words: Not specific or unique; general.

Examples

• ‘Vine fruit’ is the **generic term** for currants and raisins.
• The doctor offered me a choice of a branded or a generic drug.
• The movie was pretty boring, with a generic storyline and emotionless characters.

Usage notes

Use 'generic' when describing something that lacks distinct features. It's often appropriate in formal writing but can sound too vague in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think 'generic' as in 'generic brand' – no unique features, just standard.

Collocations

• generic product
• generic term
• generic statement
• generic drug
• generic version

Synonyms

• common
• standard
• typical
• general
• unbranded

Antonyms

• specific
• particular
• unique

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'generous'; they have different meanings.
• Using 'generic' to describe specific items; it should be used for general categories.
• Confusing 'generic' with 'generalized'; 'generic' implies lack of specificity.