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View synonyms for

generalize

especially British, ···

[jen-er-uh-lahyz]

verb (used with object)

generalized, generalizing 
  1. to infer (a general principle, trend, etc.) from particular facts, statistics, or the like.

  2. to infer or form (a general principle, opinion, conclusion, etc.) from only a few facts, examples, or the like.

  3. to give a general rather than a specific or special character or form to.

  4. to make general; bring into general use or knowledge.



verb (used without object)

generalized, generalizing 
  1. to form general principles, opinions, etc.

  2. to deal, think, or speak in generalities.

  3. to make general inferences.

generalize

/ ˈɛ԰əˌɪ /

verb

  1. to form (general principles or conclusions) from (detailed facts, experience, etc); infer

  2. (intr) to think or speak in generalities, esp in a prejudiced way

  3. (tr; usually passive) to cause to become widely used or known

  4. (intr)

    1. to spread throughout the body

    2. to change from a localized infection or condition to a systemic one

      generalized infection

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • generalizable adjective
  • generalizer noun
  • nongeneralized adjective
  • ungeneralized adjective
  • ungeneralizing adjective
  • ˈԱˌ noun
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Word History and Origins

Origin of generalize1

First recorded in 1745–55; general + -ize
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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

As Lucy so astutely puts it, opulence and a generalized sense of ease are great, but love has to be on the table, too.

From

The memo explicitly states, "The mere advocacy of political or social positions, political activism, use of strong rhetoric, or generalized philosophical embrace of violent tactics may not constitute violent extremism and are constitutionally protected."

From

Hands are typically next in line for precision, while bodies are often merely suggested with loose, generalized marks of the pen or brush, leaving room for a viewer’s perception to fill in vacancies.

From

Rather than generalize or hold on to false hopes of a utopia, Gaines looks to his immediate surroundings here in Los Angeles, where his impact on the art scene is tangible.

From

When Calle 13 stopped touring altogether, there was a generalized feeling in the industry that the band had imploded after so many sold-out tours and Latin Grammys won.

From

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generalizationgeneralized coordinate