generalize

[ jen-er-uh-lahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, gen·er·al·ized, gen·er·al·iz·ing.

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)

, gen·er·al·ized, gen·er·al·iz·ing.

1. to form general principles, opinions, etc.
2. to deal, think, or speak in generalities.
3. to make general inferences.

generalize

/ ˈdʒɛnrəˌlaɪz /

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 of a disease
   1. to spread throughout the body
   2. to change from a localized infection or condition to a systemic one

      generalized infection

Derived Forms

• ˈgeneralˌizer, noun

Other Words From

• gener·al·iza·ble adjective
• gener·al·izer noun
• non·gener·al·ized adjective
• un·gener·al·ized adjective
• un·gener·al·izing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of generalize¹

First recorded in 1745–55; general + -ize

Example Sentences

Lucore and a team of researchers found that when monkeys experienced about two weeks of warmer temperatures -- 86 degrees Fahrenheit -- their generalized immune system performance declined.

From Science Daily

At the same time, the data has its nuances: “That period features very low income levels. It is questionable whether this can be generalized to the current period.”

From Salon

Instead, the stressed mice formed generalized memories, which are encoded by larger numbers of neurons.

From Science Daily

These larger engrams produced generalized fearful memories that were retrieved even in safe situations.

From Science Daily

The Supreme Court has found that a “generalized grievance” that applies equally to every voter can’t confer the necessary legal standing.

From Los Angeles Times