generalize
UK: ˈdʒenrəlaɪz | US: ˈdʒenrəlaɪz
vt. to make a broad or universal statement based on specific instances
vt. to infer or derive a general principle from particular facts
vi. to speak in broad or indefinite terms
The word generalize emerged in the early 18th century, combining general (broad, inclusive) with the suffix -ize, which transforms nouns into verbs. It reflects the logical process of extending specific observations to universal principles—a concept central to scientific and philosophical reasoning. The root genus (Latin for "kind") ties to the idea of categorization, reinforcing the word's focus on abstraction.
Scientists often generalize findings from small samples to larger populations.
It’s unwise to generalize about an entire culture based on a single experience.
The author tends to generalize complex historical events into simple themes.
Teachers caution students not to generalize hastily without sufficient evidence.
The study aims to generalize its conclusions to similar urban environments.