generalize

verb

gen·​er·​al·​ize ˈjen-rə-ˌlīz How to pronounce generalize (audio) ˈje-nə- How to pronounce generalize (audio)
generalized; generalizing

transitive verb

1
: to give a general form to
2
a
: to derive or induce (a general conception or principle) from particulars
b
: to draw a general conclusion from
3
: to give general applicability to
generalize a law
also : to make indefinite

intransitive verb

1
: to form generalizations
also : to make vague or indefinite statements
She's always generalizing about men.
2
: to spread or extend throughout the body
generalizability noun
generalizable adjective
generalizer noun

Examples of generalize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While the sample is nationally representative at that level, the experiences of teens not in traditional school settings may not generalize. Dario Sabaghi, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024 Groups generalize essential properties of the whole numbers. Leila Sloman, WIRED, 6 Oct. 2024 Their ability to generalize across various domains shortens development cycles, giving businesses access to advanced AI without the need for extensive resources or expertise. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 11 Oct. 2024 Activists accused the museums of being complicit in Chinese political pressure to undermine Tibetan culture by altering and generalizing cataloguing terms that display Tibetan roots as distinct from Chinese regions. Angelica Villa, ARTnews.com, 24 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for generalize 

Word History

Etymology

general entry 1 + -ize

First Known Use

1710, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of generalize was in 1710

Dictionary Entries Near generalize

Cite this Entry

“Generalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/generalize. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

generalize

verb
gen·​er·​al·​ize ˈjen-(ə-)rə-ˌlīz How to pronounce generalize (audio)
generalized; generalizing
: to put in the form of a general rule : draw or state a general conclusion from a number of items or instances

Medical Definition

generalize

intransitive verb
gen·​er·​al·​ize
variants or British generalise
generalized or British generalised; generalizing or British generalising
: to spread or extend through all of a body part or region or through most of the entire body

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