broad generalizations

USAGE SUMMARY

"broad generalizations" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing statements that apply widely but may lack specificity or nuance. For example: "The article makes broad generalizations about the effects of climate change." Alternative expressions include "sweeping statements" and "overarching claims."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm making some broad generalizations here, but in general, you would not have been incarcerated before.

Cornell University

He now collects Broad Generalizations or Sweeping Statements.

The New Yorker

Until then, these broad generalizations need to be contextualized.

The New York Times

"You can't make broad generalizations," Dr. Brodsky said.

The New York Times

Mr. Thompson often cites the future burden of government spending, but usually with broad generalizations.

The New York Times

"Broad generalizations leave him in a cold intellectual fury," Hamburger writes.

The New York Times - Books

Ashcroft approaches issues in broad generalizations — more in the manner of a politician than a lawyer.

The New Yorker

The debate often reduces both PWIs and HBCUs to broad generalizations.

The Washington Post

Some of his observations are overly broad generalizations, presented without detailed, substantive or persuasive evidence.

The New York Times - Books

The scene at the pavilion begged for broad generalizations about what those achievements might be.

The New York Times

Beyond these broad generalizations, however, the relevance of IBT for understanding fragmented ecosystems is limited.

Biological Conservation

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "broad generalizations", ensure they are supported by sufficient evidence or clearly identified as preliminary assumptions to avoid misleading the audience.

Common error

Avoid using "broad generalizations" as the sole basis for arguments. Always provide specific examples and data to support your claims and add depth to your analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad generalizations" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. Ludwig examples show it used to describe statements lacking nuance or specificity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

25%

Academia

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "broad generalizations" is a grammatically correct phrase that describes statements lacking specificity. Ludwig examples show its use across diverse contexts such as News & Media, Science, and Academia, signaling its broad applicability. Ludwig AI underlines its proper grammatical status. When writing, it’s important to use "broad generalizations" carefully, ensuring they are supported by evidence and not presented as definitive conclusions. Alternatives such as "sweeping statements" or "general statements" can add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sweeping statements

Focuses on the overreaching nature of the statement, implying a lack of detailed support.

over-generalizations

Highlights the excessive or unwarranted nature of the generalization.

general statements

Emphasizes the lack of specificity in the statement.

overarching claims

Highlights that the claims are all-encompassing, potentially neglecting important details.

wide generalizations

Similar to "broad generalizations", but with a slightly different emphasis on the scope.

undifferentiated assertions

Stresses the lack of distinction or nuance in the assertion.

simplistic generalizations

Highlights the oversimplified nature of the generalization.

vague generalizations

Emphasizes the lack of clarity and precision in the generalization.

loose generalizations

Suggests a lack of rigor or strictness in the generalization.

unqualified statements

Focuses on the lack of conditions or limitations applied to the statement.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "broad generalizations" in writing?

Use "broad generalizations" to introduce a topic or provide a general overview, but always follow up with specific examples and detailed analysis to support your claims. Avoid relying solely on these types of statements without providing supporting evidence.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "broad generalizations"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "sweeping statements", "general statements", or "overarching claims". These phrases can help you vary your language while maintaining a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "broad generalizations"?

It's appropriate to use "broad generalizations" when you need to provide a general overview or summary of a topic. However, ensure that you do not rely solely on them and always provide specific details and evidence to support your claims.

What's the difference between "broad generalizations" and stereotypes?

"Broad generalizations" are general statements that may or may not be accurate, while stereotypes are often oversimplified and negative beliefs about a group of people. Stereotypes are often based on prejudice and lack of understanding, whereas "broad generalizations" can be a starting point for further investigation.