1
Core function
Considering all or most parts together, state an overall assessment while allowing exceptions.
Example
On the whole, the records agree on the order of events.
on the whole
/ɒn ðə həʊl/ · on thuh HOHLoverall-assessment phrase
Considering all or most parts together, state an overall assessment while allowing exceptions.
Use on the whole to express this relationship precisely: considering all or most parts together, state an overall assessment while allowing exceptions.
What on the whole Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Scope in a sentence
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
The winter was mild on the whole, despite two severe storms.
3
Analytical effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
On the whole, the intervention improved attendance across districts.
Use on the whole Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
On the whole, the records agree on the order of events.
The winter was mild on the whole, despite two severe storms.
On the whole, the intervention improved attendance across districts.
Precision Matters
On the whole overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
on the whole
vs.Means considering all or most parts together, state an overall assessment while allowing exceptions.
on balance
Means state a conclusion reached after weighing competing considerations.
on the whole
vs.Means considering all or most parts together, state an overall assessment while allowing exceptions.
in sum
Means introduce a concise conclusion or summary drawn from the preceding discussion.
on the whole
vs.Means considering all or most parts together, state an overall assessment while allowing exceptions.
in general
Means state what is broadly or usually true while allowing possible exceptions.
on the whole
vs.Means considering all or most parts together, state an overall assessment while allowing exceptions.
by and large
Means generally or for the most part, while allowing exceptions.
Test on the whole in Context
The statement gives the overall pattern while allowing limited exceptions.
1
Although two sites show declines, ___ the regional population has remained stable.