Words / C1

JENR-uh-lyz/ˈdʒenrəlaɪz/

To generalise (US generalize) is to draw a broad claim from particular cases: generalise from a sample, a sweeping generalisation. General is the adjective (already in the dictionary); generally is the adverb. Specify is a useful opposite move. Do not generalise from one anecdote in a results section.

Meaning

To make a broad statement from particular cases (British spelling).

Examples

• “You cannot generalise from one unhappy student to the whole year.”
• “You cannot generalise from one angry email to “staff morale”.”
• “A cautious paper says where it will not generalise: one clinic, one year.”

Good to know

Draw a broad rule (British -ise). Noun: generalisation. US: generalize. Opposite move: specify. Not one story → a nation.

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