The expression “on the whole” is commonly used in English when we want to talk about the general situation, overall opinion, or big picture. It helps us summarize our thoughts without focusing on every small detail. But English has many other natural expressions that mean the same thing. Learning these helps you speak more fluently, write more clearly, and avoid repetition.
This guide shows you the best synonyms for “on the whole,” with simple explanations and examples perfect for ESL learners.
What Does “On the Whole” Mean?
On the whole means:
- in general
- generally speaking
- considering everything
- overall
- as a general opinion
Example: On the whole, the trip was a success.
It doesn’t talk about every small detail — it talks about the general result or impression.
List of “On the whole” Synonyms
“On the whole” is a conclusion transition word in English. Learn a useful list of synonyms for all in all in English.
- Overall
- In general
- At large
- Generally
- All in all
- By and large
- As a rule
- Collectively
- In general terms
- In sum
- On balance
- In a general sense
- As a general rule
- Altogether
- Generally speaking
- Typically
- In total
- Taken as a whole
- In overall terms
- In more general terms
- As a coherent whole
Other Ways to Say “On the whole” with Examples
Simple & Common Synonyms for “On the Whole”
These are easy to use and perfect for everyday English.
✅ 1. In general
Meaning: usually; speaking broadly
-
In general, people enjoyed the event.
✅ 2. Generally
Meaning: mostly; for the most part
-
Generally, the class performed well.
✅ 3. Overall
Meaning: considering everything
-
Overall, the movie was great.
✅ 4. All in all
Meaning: after considering everything
-
All in all, it was a productive week.
✅ 5. Basically
Meaning: simply; looking at the main idea
-
Basically, the plan worked.
Neutral, Natural Synonyms (Great for Speaking)
These expressions sound natural in conversation and writing.
🌟 6. As a whole
-
As a whole, the city is very safe.
🌟 7. By and large
Meaning: mostly; for the most part
-
By and large, customers are satisfied.
🌟 8. For the most part
Meaning: in most cases
-
For the most part, the team worked well together.
🌟 9. Broadly speaking
Meaning: looking at the general picture
-
Broadly speaking, the policy is effective.
🌟 10. Largely
Meaning: mostly
-
The results were largely positive.
Formal Synonyms for “On the Whole” (Great for Writing)
Use these in essays, reports, business writing, or academic work.
📌 11. In summary
-
In summary, the program achieved its goals.
📌 12. To a large extent
Meaning: mostly; almost completely
-
The project was successful to a large extent.
📌 13. In the main
Meaning: mainly; mostly
-
In the main, the experiment was successful.
📌 14. In essence
Meaning: the main or core idea
-
In essence, the method is simple.
📌 15. Taking everything into account
Meaning: considering all details
-
Taking everything into account, the decision was fair.
Conversational Alternatives (Very Natural)
These sound friendly and are great for speaking.
😄 16. All things considered
- All things considered, the meeting went well.
😄 17. When you look at it overall
- When you look at it overall, the project improved a lot.
😄 18. Looking at the big picture
- Looking at the big picture, things are improving.
😄 19. Generally speaking
- Generally speaking, the weather here is nice.
😄 20. At the end of the day
- At the end of the day, we made the right choice.
