generic
Meaning
Pertaining to a class or category that is not specific or unique, often used to describe products, concepts, or terms that lack distinctive features or branding, thereby emphasizing their general applicability or widespread use in a particular context.
💡 The term "generic" is frequently misused in marketing contexts, where it may imply inferior quality; however, in a broader academic sense, it simply denotes a lack of specificity without an inherent value judgment.
Example Sentences
Word in Context
Standing
in
the
crowded
supermarket
aisle
,
Maria
scanned
the
assortment
of
sauces
as
she
contemplated
what
to
cook
for
the
week
.
She
reached
for
a
can
of
tomatoes
with
a
generic
label
,
noting
its
plain
packaging
compared
with
the
artisanal
jars
nearby
.
Although
the
upscale
brands
promised
distinct
flavors
,
a
quick
inspection
suggested
the
contents
were
indistinguishable
on
a
simple
taste
test
.
Being
pragmatic
and
slightly
budget
-
conscious
,
she
weighed
the
modest
savings
against
the
convenience
of
a
familiar
recipe
.
When
the
cashier
remarked
that
many
customers
now
prefer
unbranded
staples
,
Maria
realized
her
preference
was
partly
habitual
rather
than
strictly
rational
.
By
the
time
she
reached
the
checkout
,
she
had
chosen
the
generic
tin
but
felt
satisfied
that
her
decision
balanced
economy
and
practicality
.
Common Phrases
generic terms
generic products
generic approach
Synonyms
Related Words
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