generalization

/dʒɛnərəlaɪˈzeɪʃɪn/

/dʒɛnərəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/

Other forms: generalizations

Taking something specific and applying it more broadly is making a generalization. It's a generalization to say all dogs chase squirrels.

A generalization is taking one or a few facts and making a broader, more universal statement. If all the girls you know play with dolls, you might make the generalization that all girls play with dolls. Scientists try to make generalizations based on research — the more data they have, the more accurate the generalization. Generalizations can be similar to stereotypes in that they are sometimes wrong and harmful. Usually, it's best to stick with specifics and avoid generalizations.

Definitions of generalization

1. noun

   the process of formulating general concepts by abstracting common properties of instances
   synonyms: abstraction, generalisation

   type of:

   theorisation, theorization

   the production or use of theories
2. noun

   reasoning from detailed facts to general principles
   synonyms: generalisation, induction, inductive reasoning

   type of:

   colligation

   the connection of isolated facts by a general hypothesis
3. noun

   (psychology) transfer of a response learned to one stimulus to a similar stimulus
   synonyms: generalisation, stimulus generalisation, stimulus generalization

   types:

   irradiation

   (Pavolvian conditioning) the elicitation of a conditioned response by stimulation similar but not identical to the original stimulus

   type of:

   carry-over, transfer, transfer of training

   application of a skill learned in one situation to a different but similar situation
4. noun

   an idea or conclusion having general application
   synonyms: generalisation, generality

   types:

   principle, rule, tenet

   a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct

   pillar

   a fundamental principle or practice

   yang

   the bright positive masculine principle in Chinese dualistic cosmology

   yin

   the dark, negative feminine principle in Chinese dualistic cosmology

   feng shui

   the practice of arranging spaces for harmony and balance, originating in Chinese philosophy

   type of:

   idea, thought

   the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about