What does "generalize" mean?
Generalize: To apply to other genera or classes; to use with a more extensive application; to extend so as to include all special cases; to make universal in application, as a formula or rule. When a fact is generalized, our discontent is quited, and we consider the generality itself as tantamount to an explanation. Sir W. Hamilton.
Additional senses
- 2.To derive or deduce (a general conception, or a general principle) from particulars. A mere conclusion generalized from a great multitude of facts. Coleridge.
- 3.To form into a genus; to view objects in their relations to a genus or class; to take general or comprehensive views.
Sources
- Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913 edition (public domain, via GCIDE / Project Gutenberg).
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- Published: 2026-07-17T00:00:00-07:00 · Modified: 2026-07-17T00:00:00-07:00