generalize Definition
- 1make a general or broad statement by inferring from specific cases
- 2apply to a whole group or class based on a single or few examples
Using generalize: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "generalize" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
It is not fair to generalize about an entire group based on the actions of a few individuals.
Example
She tends to generalize her own experiences to everyone else.
Example
The study's findings cannot be generalized to the entire population.
Example
We cannot generalize from this small sample size.
generalize Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for generalize
Antonyms for generalize
Phrases with generalize
draw a general conclusion from a specific example or set of examples
Example
It is not appropriate to generalize from a single case.
make a generalization that applies to a wide range of cases
Example
It is difficult to generalize over such a diverse group of people.
make a generalization that is too broad or sweeping, often ignoring important exceptions or nuances
Example
It is easy to overgeneralize about complex social issues.
Origins of generalize
from Latin 'generalis', meaning 'pertaining to a whole class'
Summary: generalize in Brief
To 'generalize' [ˈdʒenərəlaɪz] is to make a broad statement based on specific cases or apply a single example to a larger group. It can be used positively, as in 'We can generalize from these results,' or negatively, as in 'Don't generalize about an entire group based on a few individuals.' 'Generalize' is often paired with 'from' or 'over,' and can be contrasted with 'specify' or 'particularize.'
