universal

adjective

the universal features of language

Syn:

general, ubiquitous, comprehensive, common, omnipresent, all-inclusive, all-embracing, across-the-board; global, worldwide, international, widespread; formal catholic

••

universal, catholic, common, ecumenical, general, generic

Something that is universal applies to every case or individual in a class or category (a universal practice among aboriginal tribesmen; a universal truth). General, on the other hand, is less precise; it implies applicability to all or most of a group or class, whether the members of that group are clearly defined or only casually associated (a drug that has come into general use among women but has not yet won the universal acceptance of doctors). Generic is often used in place of general when referring to every member of a genus or clearly-defined scientific category (a generic characteristic of insects); with reference to language, it means referring to both men and women (a generic pronoun). Common implies participation or sharing by all members of a class (a common interest in French culture) or frequently occurring (a common complaint). Catholic implies a wide-ranging or inclusive attitude (known for his catholic tastes in music), while ecumenical means pertaining to the whole Christian church or promoting unity among religious groups or divisions (an ecumenical marriage ceremony).