generalization

noun

gen·​er·​al·​i·​za·​tion ˌjen-rə-lə-ˈzā-shən  ˌje-nə- 

1

: the act or process of generalizing

2

: a general statement, law, principle, or proposition

made broad generalizations about women

3

: the act or process whereby a learned response is made to a stimulus similar to but not identical with the conditioned stimulus

Synonyms of generalization

• stereotype
• concept
• notion
• conception
• theory

Examples of generalization in a Sentence

He made several sweeping generalizations about women.

She was prone to generalization.

Recent Examples on the Web

This makes generalization and AGI key concepts when reasoning about the speed of progress. — Geoffrey Irving, Time, 3 Oct. 2026

The same can be demonstrated for generalizations of square grids in high dimensions. — Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 30 Sep. 2026

That’s why researchers are increasingly focusing not just on accuracy in ideal conditions, but on robustness, generalization and real-world readiness. — Bo Wang, The Conversation, 28 Sep. 2026

What’s bothered me, though, is how its backers have anchored their messaging around a lot of misleading generalizations about the state of college sports. — Stewart Mandel, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

generalize + -ation

First Known Use

1761, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for generalization

• acclimatisation
• acclimatization
• acidification
• actualization
• annualization
• autocorrelation
• autoregulation
• beatification
• beneficiation
• biodegradation
• biotransformation
• bureaucratization

Kids Definition

generalization

noun

gen·​er·​al·​i·​za·​tion ˌjen-(ə-)rə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

1

: the act or process of generalizing

2

: a general statement, law, principle, or proposition

Medical Definition

generalization

noun

gen·​er·​al·​iza·​tion

variants or British generalisation

ˌjen-(ə-)rə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

1

: the action or process of becoming widespread or diffuse

secondary generalization of a partial seizure

2

: the act or process whereby a learned response is made to a stimulus similar to but not identical with the conditioned stimulus