generality

[ jen-uh-ral-i-tee ]

noun

, plural gen·er·al·i·ties.

1. an indefinite, unspecific, or undetailed statement:

   to speak in generalities about human rights.

   Synonyms: banality, platitude, cliché, truism

2. a general principle, rule, or law.
3. the greater part or majority:

   the generality of people.

4. the state or quality of being general.

generality

/ ˌdʒɛnəˈrælɪtɪ /

noun

1. a principle or observation having general application, esp when imprecise or unable to be proved
2. the state or quality of being general
3. archaic.
   the majority

Word History and Origins

Origin of generality¹

1400–50; late Middle English generalite < Latin generālitās. See general, -ity

Example Sentences

The setup was clear from the opening reliance on overwrought generality: There is greater distrust today of the media than ever before, and, Bezos implores,a respected newspaper’s endorsements are part of the problem.

From Salon

Progressive originalists generally respond to this obstacle by defining rights at a higher level of generality.

From Slate

Progressive originalists generally respond to this obstacle by defining rights at a higher level of generality.

From Slate

However, much remained unknown about the nature of this body-brain system: for instance, the generality of the brain's modulation of immunity and the inflammatory response, the selective lines of communication between the body and the brain, the logic of the underlying neural circuit, and the identity of the vagal and brain components that monitor and regulate inflammation.

From Science Daily

Yet, due to its generality, it can be applied to any social dilemma with diverse individuals, like climate change, for instance.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• generalization