by and large

Definition

Mostly; generally; all things considered.

Etymology

From sailing: a ship may (or may not) sail well both close by the wind, and large, downwind, with sheets extended.

Example Sentences

• "It was, by and large, an unexceptional presentation."
• "“The people doing this by and large don’t have any real concept of how to tell a story, and neither do any kind of A.I.,” Ms. Williams said on Wednesday."
• "Akers claims that ETCS signalling renewals are roughly 50% of the cost of conventional renewals. If nothing else, this is an important reason for NR to be keen to switch. "There's no rocket science or magic in that, there's just physically less to deliver," he says. "There are no trackside signals. Yes, you have balises and marker boards, and you still have train detection, but by and large there is simply less to deliver."