general idea

Use it as a noun phrase in your sentences. You can 'have' a general idea, 'give' someone a general idea, or 'get' a general idea. It usually follows verbs like get, have, or provide. For example, 'I have a general idea of how to fix the sink.' It sounds natural and keeps the conversation moving without getting bogged down in boring technicalities.

This is perfect for meetings when you want to show you're following along. Use it when planning trips with friends to discuss the vibe before booking hotels. It’s great for students who understand a concept but might fail a detailed pop quiz. It’s also a polite way to tell a talkative person to wrap it up because you already understand the point.

Don't use this if you are a brain surgeon or a pilot mid-flight. In high-stakes situations, a general idea isn't enough; you need specifics. Avoid it when someone asks for precise data or legal definitions. If your boss asks for the final budget, saying you have a general idea might make you look unprepared or lazy. Accuracy matters more than the 'vibe' in those moments.

English speakers value efficiency and 'the bottom line.' We often prefer to start with the general idea before diving into details. This reflects a 'big picture' thinking style common in Western business and social circles. It’s a way to respect people's time by not over-explaining things they might already know. It’s the verbal equivalent of a 'TL;DR' (Too Long; Didn't Read).

Sometimes people say rough idea or vague idea. Rough idea sounds a bit more like a work-in-progress. Vague idea means you barely understand it at all. You might also hear the gist of it. That’s a more casual, idiomatic way to say the same thing. If you want to sound fancy, you could say you have a broad overview of the situation.