What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
generalization
Example
It's a generalization to say that all cats hate water. [generalization: noun]
Example
Based on my experience, I can make a generalization that people in this city are friendly. [generalization: noun]
overgeneralization
Example
It's an overgeneralization to say that all politicians are corrupt. [overgeneralization: noun]
Example
She overgeneralized her experience with one bad boss to assume that all bosses are terrible. [overgeneralized: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Generalization is more commonly used than overgeneralization in everyday language. Generalization is a useful tool for making conclusions and statements that apply to a group or category of things, while overgeneralization is a mistake or error in reasoning that should be avoided.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between generalization and overgeneralization?
Both generalization and overgeneralization can be used in various formality levels, but generalization is more versatile and neutral in tone, while overgeneralization has a negative connotation and is associated with informal or careless language.
