general vs particular vs special

Definitions

adjective

1. not specialized or limited to one class of things
2. applying to all or most members of a category or group
3. affecting the entire body
4. somewhat indefinite
5. of worldwide scope or applicability

and more 1 ...

verb

1. command as a general

noun

1. a fact about the whole (as opposed to particular)
2. a general officer of the highest rank
3. the head of a religious order or congregation

Examples

In my view his confrontational, gladiatorial style has been a major contributor to the widespread disdain of the British public for politicians generally.

Some of my remarks here are directed toward conventional scientists, who generally refrain from commenting critically on the wild ideas of a few of their colleagues because it is bad manners.

While the site focuses mainly on their environmental concerns, they're also up in arms about the Bush administration's general abuse and disregard for science - including the idea that abstinence is some kind of cureall.

View all examples

Definitions

adjective

1. surpassing what is common or usual or expected
2. first and most important
3. providing specific details or circumstances
4. exacting especially about details
5. unique or specific to a person or thing or category

and more 1 ...

noun

1. (logic) a proposition that asserts something about some (but not all) members of a class
2. a fact about some part (as opposed to general)
3. a small part that can be considered separately from the whole

Examples

What we do not know are the precise weighting of factors that go into why prices increase at any particular time.

Sudden sniffing death is particularly associated with abuse of butane, propane and chemicals in aerosols.

There are a few plotlines and characters - Sophie's mother in particular - that are somewhat redundant and unnecessary.

View all examples