universal
/ˌjuː.nɪˈvɜː.səl/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
- 1.
Existing everywhere, or meant for everyone and everything. It is often used for ideas, rules, or qualities that apply to all people or all cases.
- We need a universal rule for all branches.
- Respect is a universal value.
- This problem is almost universal in big cities.
- 2.
Suitable for many different uses or situations. Something universal works in many places, not just one.
- A white shirt is a universal choice for interviews.
- This adapter is universal for most phones.
- They want a universal solution.
Adinary Nuance
Universal is broader than common or popular. It suggests something applies to everyone, everywhere, or in many different situations. Use global for the whole world, and universal when you mean “for all” or “works everywhere.”
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- phổ quát
- Spanish
- universal
- Chinese
- 普遍的
- Japanese
- 普遍的な
- Korean
- 보편적인
Etymology
The word comes from Late Latin universalis, from universus meaning “whole” or “entire.” It entered English in the Middle Ages.
Common phrases
universal truthuniversal appealuniversal ruleuniversal design
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is universal a formal word?
- Yes, it is common in formal writing, academic English, and business contexts.
- What is the difference between universal and global?
- Global means “around the world.” Universal means “for everyone” or “applying everywhere.”
- Can I use universal for products?
- Yes. It often means a product fits many devices or situations.
- Is universal the same as common?
- Not exactly. Common means “seen often,” while universal means “true or useful everywhere.”