Generalize
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /ˈd͡ʒɛn.(ə.)ɹə.laɪz/ · Part of speech verb
Quick meaning: Generalize is a verb meaning To speak in generalities, or in vague terms.
Meaning
To speak in generalities, or in vague terms.
More Meanings
- To infer or induce from specific cases to more general cases or principles.
- To spread throughout the body and become systemic.
- To derive or deduce (a general concept or principle) from particular facts.
Example Sentences
A mere conclusion generalized from a great multitude of facts.
Copernicus generalized the celestial motions by merely referring them to the moon's motion. Newton generalized them still more by referring this last to the motion of a stone through the air.
Word Forms
- generalizes
- generalizing
- generalized
- generalise
Synonyms for generalize
Depending on context, synonyms include genericize, infer, extrapolate, generalise.
Antonyms for generalize
Common opposites include specialize, instantiate, specify, filibuster, particularize.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include extrapolate, infer, generalise, mainstream, universalize, compare.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.