generalize

especially British, gen·er·al·ise

[jen-er-uh-lahyz]

verb (used with object)

generalized, generalizing 

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)

generalized, generalizing 

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)

   1. to spread throughout the body

   2. to change from a localized infection or condition to a systemic one

      generalized infection

Other Word Forms

• generalizer noun
• generalizable adjective
• nongeneralized adjective
• ungeneralized adjective
• ungeneralizing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of generalize¹

First recorded in 1745–55; general + -ize

Example Sentences

It’s hard to generalize about the audience for a song this big.

From Los Angeles Times

Testimonials and videos on social media have documented arrests of immigrants in the middle of public streets, generating a generalized state of fear.

From Los Angeles Times

As Lucy so astutely puts it, opulence and a generalized sense of ease are great, but love has to be on the table, too.

From Salon

The memo explicitly states, "The mere advocacy of political or social positions, political activism, use of strong rhetoric, or generalized philosophical embrace of violent tactics may not constitute violent extremism and are constitutionally protected."

From Salon

Hands are typically next in line for precision, while bodies are often merely suggested with loose, generalized marks of the pen or brush, leaving room for a viewer’s perception to fill in vacancies.

From Los Angeles Times