大体

• Pinyin: dà tǐ
• Hanzi breakdown: 大 = big; 体 = 亻+ 本 (body, form)

Meaning

Generally; on the whole; for the most part. An adverb indicating an approximate or overall view.

Used when summarizing or giving a general impression without focusing on details. Similar to 大致 or 基本上. Can also function as a noun meaning 'general outline' or 'corpse' in medical contexts.

Examples

1. 他的说法大体正确，只是细节上有些出入。 His account is generally correct, just with some discrepancies in the details.
2. 会议大体结束了，就剩下一些收尾工作。 The meeting has largely concluded — just some wrap-up work remains.
3. 大体上来说，这个计划是可行的。 Generally speaking, this plan is feasible.

Usage Guide

Context: summary, approximation

Tone: measured

Do Say

• 情况大体就是这样。(That's roughly the situation.)
• 我大体了解了。(I generally understand now.)

Don't Say

• 我大体很开心 (Use 总体 or 整体 for overall emotional states — 大体 is for factual approximations)

Origin & History

Compound of 大 (big, general) + 体 (body, form). Together meaning the general form or outline.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal