a generalised idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a generalised idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a broad or overarching concept that encompasses various specific instances or details. Example: "The theory presented in the paper is based on a generalised idea that applies to multiple disciplines."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Moreover, this study shows that there is a generalised idea among the public that the state regulator has a prominent role, as the same patterns were observed for the food service industry and the education sector.

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

There was clear evidence that they had personal tacit knowledge of the usefulness of the forested environment, as opposed to abstract, generalised ideas.

New Zealand Journal of Forestry Science

They had personal tacit knowledge of the usefulness of the forested environment, as opposed to abstract, generalised ideas, but only indirect allusion was made to legal, institutional and economic topics.

New Zealand Journal of Forestry Science

"The idea is to induce a generalised seizure that in some way has a pervasive brain-wide disruption of cell function..

The Guardian

Though it reflected many deeply held political and economic grievances, particularly the feeling that the heathen foreigners were interfering with a part of the world to which they were alien, the uprising was consistently articulated as a defensive action against the inroads missionaries and their ideas were making in India, combined with a generalised fight for freedom from western occupation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Greenblatt's success came at a time when English faculties were flooded by a generalised influx of postmodern "theory", which lambasted the delusive trap of "liberal humanist" assumption and spurned the idea of subjecting literary works to aesthetic "value judgments".

The Guardian - Books

Now, it seems, indignation is becoming a generalised condition.

The Guardian - Opinion

More likely this is a generalised – and bleak – portrait of humanity at its best and worst.

The Guardian - Arts

There have been some progressive adjustments at this tournament, a generalised atmosphere reboot around the squad.

The Guardian - Sport

But what they still struggle with is knowing how to behave in a generalised situation".

The Guardian - Tech

However, there has been a rolling of women's concerns into a generalised rhetoric about victims.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a generalised idea" when you want to convey that the concept applies broadly across different specific instances or contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a generalised idea" as a substitute for specific details or evidence. Always strive to provide concrete examples or explanations to support your claims.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a generalised idea" functions as a noun phrase where "generalised" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "idea". Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct. It often sets the stage for further discussion or specification of a concept.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33.3%

News & Media

33.3%

Formal & Business

33.3%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a generalised idea" is a grammatically correct way to introduce a broad concept or notion. While Ludwig shows it is not very common, it serves the purpose of setting the stage for further clarification or specification. It's suitable for neutral to formal contexts, especially when you need to present an overarching concept that applies across various specific instances. Remember to follow up with specific details or examples to add clarity to your writing. Alternatives include phrases like "a broad concept" or "a common notion", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a broad concept

Focuses on the extensive scope of the idea, emphasizing its wide application.

a widespread belief

Highlights the common acceptance or prevalence of the idea among a population.

a common notion

Emphasizes the shared understanding or familiarity of the idea.

an abstract concept

Shifts the focus to the theoretical or non-concrete nature of the idea.

a general understanding

Highlights a basic or overall comprehension rather than specific details.

a universal principle

Suggests the idea is applicable in all cases or situations.

a prevailing thought

Indicates the idea is currently dominant or influential.

an overarching theme

Implies the idea is a central, unifying element across multiple aspects.

a global perspective

Emphasizes the idea's relevance on a worldwide scale.

a collective wisdom

Points to the idea being a result of shared knowledge or experience.

FAQs

What does "a generalised idea" mean?

The term "a generalised idea" refers to a concept that is broad and not specific, applying to a wide range of instances or situations. It is a broad understanding rather than a detailed one.

How can I use "a generalised idea" in a sentence?

You can use "a generalised idea" to introduce a concept that needs further elaboration or specification. For example: "The project is based on "a generalised idea" of sustainable development, which we will refine in the following phases."

What are some alternatives to "a generalised idea"?

Some alternatives to "a generalised idea" include "a broad concept", "a common notion", or "an abstract concept depending on the specific context".

Is it better to use "a generalised idea" or a more specific term?

The choice depends on the context. Use "a generalised idea" when introducing a broad topic. However, always follow up with specific details and examples to clarify and support your statements. Using specific language enhances clarity.