general question

[/ˈdʒɛnərəl ˈkwɛstʃən/]
noun phrasepl: general questions
pergunta geral
1. a question that is broad in scope and not specific to one particular topic or detail
Do you have any general questions about the project before we start?
Vocês têm alguma pergunta geral sobre o projeto antes de começarmos?
2. a question posed to a group or audience without targeting individuals
The teacher asked a general question to the entire class.
O professor fez uma pergunta geral para toda a turma.
3. a question concerning matters of common knowledge or widespread interest
His general question about climate change sparked a lengthy discussion.
Sua pergunta geral sobre mudanças climáticas provocou uma discussão longa.
In Brazilian educational settings, teachers frequently use 'perguntas gerais' to encourage classroom participation and broader thinking. In the US, this phrasing is common in academic, business, and public discourse contexts. The term emphasizes inclusivity and open dialogue rather than putting specific individuals on the spot.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
open questionbroad questionoverall questionwide-ranging question
Antonyms / Antônimos
specific questiondetailed questionparticular questiontargeted question

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
pergunta geral
most common form used in educational and professional contexts
Rio de Janeiro
pergunta geral / questionamento aberto
may use more conversational phrasing
São Paulo
pergunta geral / pergunta ampla
professional contexts may prefer 'pergunta ampla'
Portugal
pergunta geral / questão geral
'questão geral' is also common in Portuguese Portuguese

Related Words

inquiryquerydiscussioninterrogationtopic

Related Idioms & Phrases

ask a general question
in general
generally speaking
throw out a general question
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