Words / B2

jenr-uh-ly-ZAYSHUN/ˌdʒenrəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/

A generalisation (UK) is a broad statement from limited cases: a sweeping generalisation; generalise is the verb (already in the dictionary). US spelling is generalization. Avoid a generalisation from n = 12. Stereotype is a loaded cousin. Do not call a theorem a generalisation unless you mean the maths sense.

Meaning

A broad statement based on a few cases (UK spelling).

Examples

• “Avoid a sweeping generalisation from a sample of twelve.”
• “US journals use generalization; UK A-level still prefers generalisation, which is spelling.”

Good to know

a sweeping / unfair generalisation. Verb: generalise. US: generalization. Close (people): stereotype. Methods and essays. UK spelling.

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