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generalize

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Generalize is defined as to base statements based on the bigger picture than on smaller details.

(verb)

An example of generalize is to give an overview of a law or rule without giving the specifics.

See generalize in Webster's New World College Dictionary

transitive verb generalized, generalizing

to make general; esp.,

to state in terms of a general law or precept
to infer or derive (a general law or precept) from (particular instances)
to emphasize the general character rather than specific details of
to cause to be widely known or used; popularize

Origin: ME generalisen

intransitive verb

to formulate general principles or inferences from particulars
to talk in generalities
to become general or spread throughout a body or area

Related Forms:

generalizable adjective

See generalize in American Heritage Dictionary 4

verb gen·er·al·ized, gen·er·al·iz·ing, gen·er·al·iz·es

verb, transitive

a. To reduce to a general form, class, or law.
b. To render indefinite or unspecific.
a. To infer from many particulars.
b. To draw inferences or a general conclusion from.
a. To make generally or universally applicable.
b. To popularize.

verb, intransitive

a. To form a concept inductively.
b. To form general notions or conclusions.
To deal in generalities; speak or write vaguely.
Medicine To spread through the body. Used of a usually localized disease.

Related Forms:

genˌer·al·izˈa·ble adjective

genˈer·al·izˌer noun

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