概ね

• Reading: おおむね
• Romaji: oomune
• Kanji breakdown: 概 (gai/oomune) — approximate, general, outline
• Pronunciation: /oː.mɯ.ne/

Meaning

In general; generally; mostly; roughly; largely; on the whole. Indicates approximate completeness.

An adverb meaning 'for the most part' or 'generally.' Used to indicate that something is mostly but not entirely true or complete — 概ね賛成 (generally in agreement), 概ね良好 (mostly favourable). Common in formal writing, reports, and official statements. Often interchangeable with だいたい but carries a more formal tone.

Examples

1. 工事は概ね予定通りに進んでいる。 The construction is proceeding mostly as scheduled.
2. 今回の結果は概ね満足できるものだった。 The results this time were generally satisfactory.
3. 参加者は概ね好意的な反応を示した。 The participants generally responded favorably.

Usage Guide

Context: reports, official statements, evaluations, business

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 概 (gai, approximate/general). The kun-reading おおむね combines 大 (ō, large/great) with むね (mune, gist/purport), literally meaning 'the general gist.'

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal