a sweeping generalization

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sweeping generalization" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a statement or conclusion that is overly broad and not supported by specific evidence or examples. Example: "Claiming that all teenagers are irresponsible is a sweeping generalization that fails to consider individual differences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

But, I'm going to make a sweeping generalization here.

The New Yorker

Start with a sweeping generalization: Twitter users can be grouped into different categories.

The New York Times - Tech

The term has become a sweeping generalization for anything that comes in a bag or a box.

The Washington Post

As a sweeping generalization, art was seen as subversive, introspective and free from the grubby constraints of the same commercial concerns, which were compromising design.

The New York Times

Politics Mr. Obama opened his speech with a sweeping generalization about the net effect of last year's midterm elections that resulted in a divided Congress.

The New York Times

The Generalized Principle of the Golden Section that follows from studying the diagonal sums of the Pascal triangle is a sweeping generalization of these important principles.

Chaos, Solitons & Fractals

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

But to say that men in general aren't "man enough" is a vast, sweeping generalization.

Huffington Post

It's certainly an iconic image that, if you'll pardon me a massive sweeping generalization completely unsupported by facts, won Obama the election.

Vice

"She's making a broad, sweeping generalization," says Hannity.

The Washington Post

They will definitely, again, not all of them, this is kind of a broad sweeping generalization, but they tend to prioritize self overwork and self priorities over work priorities.

Cornell University

This is a damaging, sweeping generalization, and I'm living proof as to why.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sweeping generalization", acknowledge its broad nature and consider adding a disclaimer to indicate that it might not apply to every specific instance. This shows awareness and avoids misleading the audience.

Common error

Don't present "a sweeping generalization" as an absolute truth. Always consider and acknowledge exceptions or nuances. Ensure you're not perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sweeping generalization" functions as a noun phrase. Ludwig's examples indicate its role in identifying broad and potentially inaccurate claims, often serving to critique statements lacking specific support. It highlights the overly inclusive nature of an assertion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a sweeping generalization" is a commonly used term to describe statements that are overly broad and lack specific evidence. Ludwig AI confirms that its usage is grammatically correct and that is employed across various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and academic writing. When using this phrase, it's crucial to acknowledge the broad nature of the statement and consider providing disclaimers to avoid misinterpretations or perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Alternative phrases like "broad generalization" or "overgeneralization" can be used depending on the specific context. Always strive for nuanced and well-supported claims to avoid falling into the trap of making "a sweeping generalization".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broad generalization

Omits the adjective "sweeping", emphasizing the breadth of the generalization.

overgeneralization

Implies a generalization that is excessive or unwarranted.

general statement

A more neutral term, lacking the negative connotation of "sweeping".

blanket statement

Suggests a statement that applies to all cases, regardless of individual differences.

wholesale assertion

Implies a complete and unrestricted declaration.

hasty generalization

Highlights the lack of sufficient evidence for the generalization.

unsubstantiated claim

Emphasizes the lack of evidence supporting the generalization.

stereotypical assumption

Connects the generalization to pre-existing stereotypes.

simplistic conclusion

Suggests that the generalization is an oversimplified view of a complex issue.

oversimplified statement

Highlights the oversimplification inherent in the generalization.

FAQs

How to use "a sweeping generalization" in a sentence?

You can use "a sweeping generalization" to describe a statement that is too broad and doesn't account for individual differences. For example, "Saying all politicians are corrupt is "a sweeping generalization".".

What can I say instead of "a sweeping generalization"?

You can use alternatives like "broad generalization", "overgeneralization", or "general statement" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a sweeping generalization" or "sweeping generalization"?

"A sweeping generalization" is more grammatically correct as the article "a" precedes the noun phrase. "Sweeping generalization" without the article is less common in formal writing.

What's the difference between "a sweeping generalization" and "a stereotype"?

While both involve broad assumptions, ""a sweeping generalization"" is a general statement that may or may not be negative. A stereotype is a specific, often negative, belief about a group of people.