how do we distinguish generic and general

[Tedwonny]

These two words seem to refer to the same concept. How do we distinguish them? thanks

[billmcd]

These two words seem to refer to the same concept. How do we distinguish between them? thanks

And the dictionary states......................

[Tedwonny]

And the dictionary states......................

Well, I've looked them up in different dictionaries before asking of course and according to
http://www.usingenglish.com/forum/as...c-general.html, an earlier post,

are the two words really synonymous and can be used interchangeably?

thanks