What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
generalize
Example
You can't generalize about all teenagers being lazy. [generalize: verb]
Example
It's not fair to generalize about a whole culture based on one experience. [generalizing: gerund or present participle]
summarize
Example
Can you summarize the main points of the article for me? [summarize: verb]
Example
The summary at the beginning of the chapter provided a helpful overview. [summary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Summarize is more commonly used than generalize in everyday language. Summarize is a versatile skill that can be applied to various contexts, such as academic writing, business, or personal communication. Generalize, on the other hand, is less common and may be associated with negative connotations if used unfairly or inaccurately.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between generalize and summarize?
Summarize is generally considered a formal skill, often used in academic or professional settings. Generalize can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but may be perceived as less formal due to its potential for oversimplification or stereotyping.
