Generalize

Alternative forms

• generalise non-Oxford British spelling

Origin

general + -ize

Full definition of generalize

Verb

1. To speak in generalities, or in vague terms.
2. To infer or induce from specific cases to more general cases or principles.
• W. NicholsonCopernicus generalized the celestial motions by merely referring them to the moon's motion. Newton generalized them still more by referring this last to the motion of a stone through the air.
3. To spread throughout the body and become systemic.
4. To derive or deduce (a general conception, or a general principle) from particulars.
• ColeridgeA mere conclusion generalized from a great multitude of facts.

Antonyms

• specialize

Derived terms

• generalizable, generalisable
• generalizability, generalisability
• generalization, generalisation
• generalizer, generaliser
• generalist

Related terms

• general