a sweeping statement

USAGE SUMMARY

'a sweeping statement' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to a broad comment or generalization about a person, situation, or group. For example, "The mayor made a sweeping statement about the city's economic growth, but he didn't provide any details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

"But it's not a sweeping statement".

The New York Times

This is a sweeping statement.

The New York Times

'Black lives matter' is a sweeping statement".

The Guardian

I didn't want to make a sweeping statement, but I want to have people maybe reserve their judgment.

Independent

"He made a sweeping statement that 'journalists could go to jail' simply for 'holding those in authority to account'.

The Guardian

One fashion magazine suggested that dressing all in black "communicates authority", which seems a bit of a sweeping statement.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

That is a very sweeping statement about an institution that is supposedly devoted to loving kindness, peace and moral repentance, but it is not an original one.

The New York Times - Books

First, the dismissal of self-published books in a grand sweeping statement is irresponsible of a modern newspaper editor.

Huffington Post

CG: Pappano said that singers seemed to be "weak in their bodies" and "they don't care" – a somewhat sweeping statement that was bound to raise a few hackles among the vast majority of professional singers.

The Guardian - Opinion

Unless you've travelled all over the world examining this item in great detail, you really don't have a leg to stand on making such a broad sweeping statement.

WikiHow

So when cultural and business leaders gathered a few years back to plan how to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Portuguese colonization of Brazil, it was preordained that they would want to make a bold, sweeping statement about the state of the arts in Brazil.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sweeping statement", ensure you provide context or evidence to support the generalization, preventing misinterpretations and strengthening your argument.

Common error

Avoid making "a sweeping statement" without providing supporting evidence or acknowledging exceptions. This can weaken your credibility and lead to criticism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sweeping statement" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object or subject complement in a sentence. Ludwig examples confirm its role in describing broad generalizations or assertions, as noted by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sweeping statement" is a common phrase used to describe a broad generalization or assertion, often with a critical undertone. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When using the phrase, it's crucial to consider the context and provide supporting evidence to avoid misinterpretations. Alternatives include phrases like ""a broad generalization"" or ""a blanket statement"", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to avoid making sweeping statements without adequate substantiation to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sweeping generalization

Similar to "a broad generalization", but with a slightly more negative connotation.

a broad generalization

Focuses on the generalization aspect, implying a lack of specific detail.

a blanket statement

Emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of the statement, often implying a lack of nuance.

a wide assertion

Highlights the expansive nature of the claim being made.

an overreaching claim

Suggests the statement extends beyond what can be justified or proven.

a far-reaching assertion

Implies the statement has significant implications or consequences.

a comprehensive assertion

Suggests the statement covers a wide range of aspects.

an encompassing statement

Similar to "a comprehensive assertion", highlighting the statement's broad scope.

a grandiose declaration

Implies the statement is pompous or exaggerated in its scope.

a general remark

A less critical way to express that something is general

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a sweeping statement" in writing?

To use "a sweeping statement" effectively, provide supporting evidence and acknowledge potential exceptions. This ensures clarity and strengthens your argument.

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

"A sweeping statement" and "a broad generalization" are similar, but "a sweeping statement" can sometimes imply a greater scope or impact, while "a broad generalization" simply indicates a lack of specific detail.

Is it always negative to make "a sweeping statement"?

Not necessarily. While often used critically, "a sweeping statement" can be effective if followed by sufficient justification and a recognition of nuances and exceptions. It's all about context and responsible usage.

What are some alternatives to "a sweeping statement" that I can use?

Depending on the context, you might use phrases like "a broad generalization", "a wide assertion", or "a blanket statement". Choose the phrase that best reflects the nuance you want to convey.