generality

noun

gen·​er·​al·​i·​ty ˌje-nə-ˈra-lə-tē How to pronounce generality (audio)
plural generalities
1
: the quality or state of being general
2
b
: a vague or inadequate statement
3
: the greatest part : bulk
the generality of the population

Examples of generality in a Sentence

He spoke in generalities as he discussed his plans for the future. I noticed the generality of the language he used in discussing his plans.
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.
Asked about his performance recently, Domi spoke only in generalities. Joshua Kloke, The Athletic, 16 Jan. 2025 As a generality, many find that a good bottom diet is more about avoiding certain foods: dairy, spicy food, fast food, natural diuretics, greasy meals, and red meat. Matt Baume, Them, 30 Nov. 2024 Trafficking in generalities rarely leads to universal truth. Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 4 Dec. 2024 As artists were increasingly shifting their attention from generalities to specifics, Bertillon’s heirs were learning to see like artists. Jonathon Keats, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for generality 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of generality was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near generality

Cite this Entry

“Generality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/generality. Accessed 21 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

generality

noun
gen·​er·​al·​i·​ty ˌjen-ə-ˈral-ət-ē How to pronounce generality (audio)
plural generalities
1
: the quality or state of being general
2
b
: a statement that is unclear or that does not give enough information
3
: the greatest part : bulk

More from Merriam-Webster on generality

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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