general purpose

[/ˈdʒɛn.ər.əl ˈpɝ.pəs/]
adjective/noun phrase
uso geral; propósito geral
1. designed or suitable for multiple uses or functions rather than a specific single purpose
A general purpose computer can run many different types of software.
Um computador de uso geral pode executar muitos tipos diferentes de software.
2. applicable to various situations or contexts; versatile
This general purpose cleaner works on most household surfaces.
Este limpador de uso geral funciona na maioria das superfícies domésticas.
3. not specialized or limited to a particular field or application
He has a general purpose degree in business administration.
Ele tem um diploma de propósito geral em administração de empresas.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, 'general purpose' is commonly used in technology and consumer product marketing. In Brazil, it's frequently seen in product descriptions as 'de uso geral' or 'multiusos'. The term reflects the consumer preference for versatile, cost-effective solutions rather than single-use items, particularly in the context of household appliances and software.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
versatilemultipurposeall-purposeuniversalgenericnon-specialized
Antonyms / Antônimos
specializedspecific-purposededicatedparticularlimited-use

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
de uso geral; propósito geral
Most common translation in formal and informal contexts
Portugal
de utilização geral; fim geral
Slightly more formal phrasing preferred in European Portuguese
Technical/Business Portuguese
multiusos; versátil
Alternative technical translations in computing and business contexts

Related Words

versatilitymulti-functionaladaptabilityflexibilitybroad application

Related Idioms & Phrases

a jack of all trades
fit for all occasions
one size fits all
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