What does generic mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/dʒɛnərɪk/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A term used to describe something that is general or common, lacking distinctive features or characteristics.

Examples

• The company used a generic logo to avoid any copyright issues.
• The store sells generic brands of coffee at a lower price.

Synonyms

• Universal
• Common
• Ordinary

Antonyms

• Specific
• Unique
• Exclusive

Additional Information

Generic terms are often used in various contexts, including marketing, where companies use generic branding to appeal to a wider audience. In pharmaceuticals, generic drugs are versions of brand-name medications that have the same active ingredients but are sold at a lower price.

In information technology, generic refers to a programming language or software that can be applied to various systems or platforms. In general, the term generic is used to describe something that is not specific or distinctive, but rather general or common.

Etymology

The word “generic” comes from the Latin “genus,” meaning “kind” or “class.”

Usage Notes

When using the word “generic,” it’s essential to consider the context and nuance. In some cases, generic may imply a lack of quality or uniqueness, while in others, it may simply mean common or general.

Cultural References

The term “generic” has been used in popular culture to describe products, services, or ideas that lack originality or distinctiveness.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Generic advice
• Generic solution

Related Words or Phrases

• Universal
• Commonplace
• Non-descript

Collocations

• Generic brand
• Generic term
• Generic solution

Frequency of Use

The word “generic” is moderately common in modern language, used in various contexts to convey the idea of something being general or common.

Common Misspellings

• Jeneric
• Geniric