generalize

verb

gen·​er·​al·​ize ˈjen-rə-ˌlīz How to pronounce generalize (audio) ˈje-nə- How to pronounce generalize (audio)
generalized; generalizing

transitive verb

1
: to give a general form to
2
a
: to derive or induce (a general conception or principle) from particulars
b
: to draw a general conclusion from
3
: to give general applicability to
generalize a law
also : to make indefinite

intransitive verb

1
: to form generalizations
also : to make vague or indefinite statements
She's always generalizing about men.
2
: to spread or extend throughout the body
generalizability noun
generalizable adjective
generalizer noun

Examples of generalize in a Sentence

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.
This breakthrough allows machines to handle unfamiliar items by generalizing from previous experiences, closing the gap between specialized and general-purpose robots. Janakiram Msv, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025 Previous methods have struggled with accuracy, limited task variety, and difficulty generalizing across different individuals. The Physics Arxiv Blog, Discover Magazine, 26 Feb. 2025 The formula is much more efficient and generalizes to any range of numbers instantly. Lance Eliot, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025 Some users who were adopted at birth criticized Buth for generalizing. Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 28 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for generalize

Word History

Etymology

general entry 1 + -ize

First Known Use

1710, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of generalize was in 1710

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Generalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/generalize. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

generalize

verb
gen·​er·​al·​ize ˈjen-(ə-)rə-ˌlīz How to pronounce generalize (audio)
generalized; generalizing
: to put in the form of a general rule : draw or state a general conclusion from a number of items or instances

Medical Definition

generalize

intransitive verb
gen·​er·​al·​ize
variants or British generalise
generalized or British generalised; generalizing or British generalising
: to spread or extend through all of a body part or region or through most of the entire body

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