generalization

noun

gen·​er·​al·​i·​za·​tion ˌjen-rə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce generalization (audio) ˌje-nə- How to pronounce generalization (audio)
Synonyms of generalization
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

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Examples of generalization in a Sentence

He made several sweeping generalizations about women. She was prone to generalization.
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.
Start with an abstract generalization of the integers called a ring. — Konstantin Kakaes, Quanta Magazine, 20 May 2026 Most leaders can’t afford to wait weeks for insights that could inform their next move, and can revert to relying on generalizations to guide them as a result. — Alex Cooper, Fortune, 16 May 2026 Teenagers are tested on more advanced skills, such as making generalizations from a reading passage and comparing information from charts and graphs. — ABC News, 10 June 2026 At the risk of generalization, Israelis were formed by the conviction that Jews can never again depend on the goodwill of others for survival. — Rabbi Josh Weinberg, Sun Sentinel, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for generalization

Word History

Etymology

generalize + -ation

First Known Use

1761, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of generalization was in 1761

Rhymes for generalization

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Browse Nearby Words

generalizable
generalization
generalize
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Cite this Entry

“Generalization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/generalization. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

generalization

noun
gen·​er·​al·​i·​za·​tion ˌjen-(ə-)rə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce generalization (audio)
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 How to pronounce generalization (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on generalization

Nglish: Translation of generalization for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about generalization

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