Generalized Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Psychology

• Generalization is a key concept in psychology; it describes how individuals apply learned behaviors from one situation to similar new situations.
• In learning, students often generalize rules from examples they’ve studied to solve new problems effectively.
• Behavioral therapy uses generalization to help patients apply coping skills across different aspects of life.

Statistics

• In research, generalized findings are crucial for applying results from a sample to a larger population.
• Statistical models often rely on generalization to evaluate trends and make predictions about future outcomes.
• However, a major risk with generalization in statistics is the potential to overlook important exceptions or nuances.

Language and Communication

• Generalizing is a common communication strategy that helps simplify complex information for easier understanding.
• It can lead to misunderstandings when important details are overlooked, emphasizing the balance needed in communication.
• Using inclusive language often requires generalization to ensure that statements apply to diverse groups of people.

Education

• Teachers encourage students to generalize concepts they've learned to build a foundational understanding in various subjects.
• Curriculum often includes generalization exercises to help students connect specific skills with broader applications.
• In some cases, excessive generalization can lead to oversimplification, stressing the importance of nuanced thinking in learning.

Main points about word origin

• The term 'generalized' comes from the Latin word 'generalizare,' which means to make general.
• It has been in use in the English language since the early 19th century, evolving from the idea of making concepts broader.
• In philosophy, this term reflects how we form conclusions from specific examples to broader ideas.

The word 'generalized' comes from the root 'general,' which originates from the Latin 'generalis,' meaning 'pertaining to a genus' or 'class.' The concept of 'general' is related to forming generalities or broad statements that apply across various instances. It first began to appear in English in the late 14th century, signifying ideas that are not specific or detailed. The suffix '-ized' indicates a transformation or process, indicative of making something general. Over time, 'generalized' found applications in various fields, including logic, philosophy, and science, where it became important to abstract specific examples and establish a more comprehensive understanding of concepts. The use of 'generalized' has been crucial in advancing discussions around theories and models that require broader applicability, particularly in academic and professional discourse.

At #6,008 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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• 6005 instructor
• 6006 traveled
• 6007 frightened
• 6008 generalized
• 6009 satisfactorily
• 6010 lively
• 6011 strengthening
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