Definition

Describing something that is made more general or less specific, often applied to concepts or ideas that are not detailed or specialized.

Example

The theory was generalised to apply to a wider range of situations.

Conversation

I read an article that mentioned a more generalised approach to learning languages.

Oh really? What did it say about that?

It suggested that focusing on common phrases is more effective than memorizing grammar rules.

That makes sense! It’s easier to communicate with basic phrases.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make something more general or broad, often by applying a rule or idea to a wider range of cases.

Example

The scientist generalised the results of the experiment to apply to similar situations.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the study that generalised the results across different age groups?

Yeah, I found that really interesting. It shows how varied people's experiences can be.

Exactly! I think they generalised too much, though, without considering individual differences.

Root Explanation

Generalised → It is formed from "general" (from Latin *generalis*, meaning pertaining to a whole or class) and "-ised" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating the process of becoming or making). The word "generalised" means to make something applicable to a whole class or category rather than to specific instances.

Memory Tip

Think of 'general' as referring to the whole group, and '-ised' as the process of making it so. This helps you remember that 'generalised' means to apply something broadly to a whole category.

Visually Confused Words