Definition

To make a broad statement or conclusion based on specific examples or cases.

Example

It's important not to generalize from just one experience.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think it's easy to generalize about people based on their appearance.

Yeah, but that can be really misleading sometimes.

Exactly! It’s important to get to know someone before making assumptions.

For sure, every person has their own story.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make a broad statement or conclusion based on specific examples or cases.

Example

In her research, she tried to generalize the findings to apply to a larger population.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think it's easy to generalize about people's habits based on a few examples.

Yeah, but that can lead to misunderstandings.

Exactly! We shouldn't generalize without knowing the whole story.

Root Explanation

Generalize → It is formed from "general" (from Latin *generalis*, meaning pertaining to a whole class or kind) and "-ize" (a suffix used to form verbs meaning to make or to become). The word "generalize" means to make a general statement or conclusion based on specific instances.

Memory Tip

Think of making a broad statement about a whole class or kind — that's what generalize means, as it involves taking something specific and making it more general.

Visually Confused Words