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Generalized: meaning, definitions and examples

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generalized

 

[ ˈdʒɛn.ə.rə.laɪzd ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

broad application

The term 'generalized' refers to something that is made more general or abstract, often by applying common characteristics or principles across different instances. It suggests a level of abstraction that avoids specificity, allowing for a broader interpretation or application. In various fields such as mathematics, psychology, and medicine, generalized concepts are essential for establishing frameworks that can be applied to multiple cases or scenarios. The goal of generalizing is to highlight overarching ideas or trends rather than focusing on unique details.

Synonyms

abstracted, common, overall, universal

Examples of usage

  • A generalized theory of evolution can explain diverse species.
  • The doctor provided a generalized diagnosis based on common symptoms.
  • In statistics, generalized data helps in forming broad conclusions.
  • He made a generalized statement about the team's performance.

Translations

Translations of the word "generalized" in other languages:

🇵🇹 generalizado

🇮🇳 सामान्यीकृत

🇩🇪 generalisiert

🇮🇩 generalisasi

🇺🇦 узагальнений

🇵🇱 uogólniony

🇯🇵 一般化された

🇫🇷 généralisé

🇪🇸 generalizado

🇹🇷 genelleştirilmiş

🇰🇷 일반화된

🇸🇦 مُعَمَّم

🇨🇿 generalizovaný

🇸🇰 generalizovaný

🇨🇳 概括的

🇸🇮 generaliziran

🇮🇸 almennt

🇰🇿 жалпыланған

🇬🇪 გენერალიზებული

🇦🇿 ümumiləşdirilmiş

🇲🇽 generalizado

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

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