a generalized idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a generalized idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a concept that is broad or not specific, often in contexts like brainstorming, theory development, or summarizing thoughts. Example: "In our discussion, we need to focus on a generalized idea that encompasses all the different perspectives presented."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The diary's subject is often turned into a generalized idea of injustice.

The New York Times - Arts

The diary's subject is often turned into a generalized idea of injustice.

The New York Times - Arts

They tend to prefer specific proposals that would benefit them, rather than a generalized idea that would help their shareholders, and everyone else's.

The New York Times

A generalized idea for developing realizable high-order finite-volume schemes for quadrature-based moment methods is presented.

Journal of Computational Physics

She proceeded from inferring a generalized idea of the participant's answers, to analyzing the data and finding codes.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Although a generalized idea about the accumulation of DNA damage with age exists, results found in the literature are inconsistent.

Aging

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

In a book that never succeeds in finding Pete (though it comes tantalizingly close), the author finally shifts his emphasis to a more generalized idea of relationships between men.

The New York Times - Books

"And he said, rather tantalizingly, we can now invent a machine...and that really is the generalized idea of the computer as we now know it".

Huffington Post

"And he said, rather tantalizingly, we can now invent a machine...and that really is the generalized idea of the computer as we now know it". Alan Turing in an undated photograph.

HuffPost

One problem is that over the 85-minute running time, they never settle on anyone or anything for long, jumping from gym to home and from one generalized idea to another.

The New York Times

"How I Learned What I Learned" hits its jaunty stride when Wilson moves beyond generalized ideas about the oppression of his people and digs into the specifics of his own life.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a generalized idea", ensure that the context provides enough information to understand the concept, even if it lacks specific details. This is particularly important in introductory sections or overviews.

Common error

Avoid using "a generalized idea" as a substitute for concrete details in situations where specificity is required. If further explanation is needed, provide it. Otherwise consider replacing it with "a broad concept".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a generalized idea" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It denotes a concept that is broad and lacking in specific details, as supported by Ludwig's AI which deems the phrase correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

16%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a generalized idea" is a valid and useful phrase for referring to a broad, non-specific concept. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not overly common, its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, including science, news, and encyclopedic writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the context provides sufficient understanding and avoid relying on it as a substitute for necessary details. Consider alternative phrases like "a broad concept" or "a general notion" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Its usage pattern suggests its utility across scientific, journalistic, and academic domains, with reputable sources like The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica showcasing its application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a broad concept

Emphasizes the wide scope or range of the idea.

a general notion

Highlights the lack of specificity and detail.

an overarching theme

Suggests a unifying idea that connects different elements.

a comprehensive concept

Indicates a concept that includes many aspects.

a simplified abstraction

Focuses on the simplified and abstract nature of the idea.

a basic understanding

Implies a fundamental and elementary grasp of the subject.

a conceptual framework

Highlights the structural and organizational aspect of the idea.

a theoretical construct

Emphasizes the hypothetical and abstract nature of the idea.

a sweeping generalization

Points out the broad and potentially inaccurate nature of the idea.

a global perspective

Highlights the wide-ranging and inclusive nature of the idea.

FAQs

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

You can use "a generalized idea" to refer to a broad concept or notion. For example: "The discussion started with "a general notion" of justice before delving into specific cases."

What are some alternatives to "a generalized idea"?

Alternatives to "a generalized idea" include "a broad concept", "a general theme", or "an overarching theme", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a generalized idea" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "a generalized idea" when introducing a topic, summarizing a concept, or discussing theoretical frameworks where specific details are not immediately necessary or relevant.

How does "a generalized idea" differ from a specific concept?

"A generalized idea" refers to a broad, high-level notion, while a specific concept is more detailed and focused. Using "a broad concept" lets you start a discussion before adding the details.