on the whole
Related to on the whole: Whole numbers
on the whole
Considering everything together; in general or for the most part. The weather was quite nice on the whole, except for one really rainy day in the middle of the trip. On the whole, the performance was bland and uninspired.
See also: on, whole
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
on the whole
generally; considering everything. On the whole, this was a very good day. Your work—on the whole—is quite good.
See also: on, whole
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
on the whole
Considering everything, as in On the whole we enjoyed our vacation, although the hotel was not perfect by any means. [Late 1600s] Also see the synonyms by and large; for the most part.
See also: on, whole
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
on the whole
taking everything into account; in general.See also: on, whole
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
on the ˈwhole
considering everything; in general: On the whole her school work is improving, though her spelling is still poor.See also: on, whole
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
on the whole
1. Considering everything: on the whole, a happy marriage.
2. In most instances or cases; as a rule: can expect sunny weather, on the whole.
See also: on, whole
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
- nice weather we're having
- save for a rainy day, to
- have a nice one
- nice place (you have here)
- Nice place you have here
- nice one
- nice one!
- fine weather for ducks
- (it was) nice talking to you
- nice talking to you