by and large — generalising
expressionC1IELTS 7+neutralcommon
Used to introduce a statement that sums up the main point or general trend, while allowing for some exceptions.
Say it like a native
Textbook When considered in its overall generality, with minor exceptions notwithstanding, people were happy.
Native By and large, people were happy with it.
The chunk generalises in three words; the formal version is a heavy clause.
Pattern: by and large, [clause]
In use
- By and large, people in my city are quite friendly.daily life
- By and large, I think technology has improved our lives, although there are some drawbacks, like people spending too much time on their phones.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ By in large, it's fine.
✓ By and large, it's fine.
It's 'by AND large', not 'by in large'.
Common collocations
by and large + generalisation— it's, people, things, we're
Don't confuse it
'By and large' is similar to 'on the whole', but 'on the whole' can sound slightly more formal or written. Both are used to generalise, but 'by and large' is more common in spoken English.