AI Foundations · Side by side
LLM vs Generative AI
vs
A large language model (LLM) is a type of generative AI specialised in text. Generative AI is the broader category that also includes image, audio, video, and code generation. Every LLM is generative AI; not all generative AI is an LLM.
LLM
Large language model (text)
Generative AI
AI that generates any content
Side by side
| LLM | Generative AI | |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Text-focused models | All generated media |
| Relationship | A subset of generative AI | The umbrella category |
| Examples | GPT, Claude, Gemini, Llama | LLMs + image/audio/video models |
| Use | Chat, code, writing | Content of any modality |
The Verdict
Say 'LLM' when you specifically mean text models; say 'generative AI' for the broader field. For building assistants and agents you'll mostly work with LLMs, often alongside image or speech models under the generative-AI umbrella.
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Frequently asked questions
Is ChatGPT an LLM or generative AI?
Both, ChatGPT is powered by an LLM, which is a form of generative AI.
Are image generators LLMs?
No, image models (e.g. diffusion) are generative AI but not LLMs, which are text-based.
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