blanket assumption

USAGE SUMMARY

'blanket assumption' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe an assumption that is made about an entire group, without taking any individual characteristics into account. For example, "The blanket assumption that all teenagers are irresponsible is simply not true."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

As he said: "You can't make a blanket assumption about James's sexuality or his fiction or his life.

The New York Times - Books

And from Nick, "As an Englishman, I'll make the blanket assumption the State of Western Australia is rubbish.

The Guardian - Sport

"There is a blanket assumption that if we stop funding the arts my property taxes will go down, and that is not the case," said David Lee White, the associate artistic director for Passage Theater in Trenton.

The New York Times

This blanket assumption that 'I'm dumb in math' has changed to 'I need to practice fractions.'" That's exactly what Maria de Leon, a seventh grade student, did in partnership with her teacher.

The New York Times

They said the law required individual assessments of each inmate's personality and medical profile rather than a blanket assumption that all H.I.V.-positive inmates presented such a danger that there was no "reasonable accommodation" that could allow any to participate in normal prison life.

The New York Times

This seems to be the initial turn-off when western feminism comes to the rescue, the blanket assumption that the victim has no volition nor can respond to adversity with the commensurate degree of outrage because she is so accustomed and desensitised to her own subjugation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

"There is a blanket assumptions relating to all sexual behavior.

The New York Times

Mental health experts have cautioned against blanket assumptions for people with depression, or any other illness.

The Guardian

Frances Hudson, the global thematic strategist at Standard Life Investment in Edinburgh, warned that demographic influences developed slowly, and one should be beware of "blanket assumptions" when making investment decisions.

The New York Times

So, what I'm saying, Peter, is that it doesn't matter whether you or your friend is right – you can't make blanket assumptions about women based on what they wear.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Povey says it is important not to make blanket assumptions when it comes to autism; as with everyone else, some people will love sport and some will hate it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When criticizing a "blanket assumption", specify why it's flawed by providing counter-examples or highlighting overlooked nuances.

Common error

Avoid using "blanket assumptions" as a basis for arguments without providing supporting evidence or acknowledging exceptions. This can weaken your argument and lead to misrepresentations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "blanket assumption" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to a general or widespread belief. As Ludwig AI highlights, it describes a generality, often without taking any individual characteristics into account. For example, "This blanket assumption that 'I'm dumb in math' has changed to 'I need to practice fractions.'"

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

26%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "blanket assumption" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to a broad generalization or belief, often made without considering individual differences or specific circumstances. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used to identify and critique generalizations in various contexts. The phrase appears most often in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While not inherently negative, "blanket assumptions" are often criticized for their potential to oversimplify complex issues or promote unfair treatment. When using or discussing "blanket assumptions", it's important to provide supporting evidence, acknowledge exceptions, and avoid overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

blanket statement

A direct and often unsubstantiated assertion that covers a wide range.

broad generalization

Similar to "sweeping generalization", but slightly less negative in connotation.

sweeping generalization

Implies a broad statement that applies to all instances, often without sufficient evidence.

unqualified generalization

A generalization made without any limitations or exceptions.

general presupposition

Highlights the idea of a belief held beforehand, applicable in a general sense.

global assumption

Indicates an assumption that applies worldwide or to a very large scale.

categorical assumption

Implies an assumption that places things into distinct, all-encompassing categories.

overarching premise

Focuses on the underlying basis for an argument or belief.

wholesale assumption

Suggests accepting something completely and without discrimination.

universal supposition

Emphasizes the belief that something is true for all cases.

FAQs

How can I use "blanket assumption" in a sentence?

You can use "blanket assumption" to describe a general belief that is applied to all members of a group, often without considering individual differences. For example, "The "blanket assumption" that all students cheat is unfair to those who maintain academic integrity."

What's a good alternative to "blanket assumption"?

Alternatives include "sweeping generalization", "broad generalization", or "general presupposition", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to make a "blanket assumption"?

While often used negatively, a "blanket assumption" isn't inherently bad. It becomes problematic when used to justify unfair treatment or ignore individual circumstances. Sometimes, it's a starting point that needs further nuance.

What's the difference between "blanket assumption" and "stereotype"?

A "blanket assumption" is a general belief applied broadly, while a stereotype is a specific, often oversimplified and negative, belief about a group. Stereotypes are a type of "blanket assumption", but not all "blanket assumption" are stereotypes.