generalize from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generalize from" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when drawing broader conclusions or principles based on specific examples or data. Example: "From the results of this study, we can generalize from the findings to suggest that similar trends may occur in other populations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's hard to generalize from one return.

The New York Times

Generalize from one traumatic fact or locale to possible others?

The New York Times - Science

You can't take one interesting variation and generalize from it".

The New Yorker

You can't really generalize from such a provincial example.

The New York Times

After hundreds of introspective interviews, Dr. Hurlburt still hesitates to generalize from his findings.

The New York Times - Health

Hacker is right that on this topic we all tend to generalize from personal experience.

The New York Times - Books

"The moral is that you can't generalize from mouse studies to humans".

The New York Times - Magazine

Two: Even if your data are perfect, how can you generalize from the information?

The New Yorker

To be sure, it is always risky to generalize from a single visit.

The Washington Post

They're willing to generalize from a majority object to a minority, but they're not willing to generalize from a minority object to the majority.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Machine learning develops intelligent computer systems that are able to generalize from previously seen examples.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "generalize from", ensure your sample size is adequate and representative to avoid oversimplification or inaccurate conclusions. Consider potential biases in your data.

Common error

Avoid drawing sweeping conclusions from a small or unrepresentative dataset. Always acknowledge the limitations of your sample when you "generalize from" specific instances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generalize from" functions as a verb phrase followed by a preposition. Ludwig AI indicates it's used to describe the process of drawing broader inferences or applying specific observations to a larger context. It is commonly used to express the act of forming general rules or principles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

32%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "generalize from" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the process of drawing broader conclusions or making general statements based on specific examples or data. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used across various fields, especially in Science, News & Media, and Academia. When using the phrase, it is important to ensure your sample size is adequate and representative to avoid oversimplification or inaccurate conclusions. Alternatives like "draw conclusions from", "infer from", and "extrapolate from" can provide nuanced ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

draw conclusions from

This alternative suggests a process of reaching a judgment based on available information.

infer from

This option emphasizes the act of deducing or reasoning from evidence.

extrapolate from

This phrase suggests extending known data into an unknown area by assuming that existing trends will continue.

deduce from

Implies reaching a conclusion by logical reasoning.

derive from

This phrase highlights obtaining something from a source, often information or a conclusion.

make inferences based on

Focuses on the process of forming conclusions based on available data.

take as a general rule

This alternative suggests adopting something as a standard principle or guideline.

apply broadly based on

This option emphasizes the application of specific findings to a wider context.

extend the findings from

This suggests expanding the implications or reach of a particular set of results.

formulate a generalization from

This highlights the process of creating a general statement or principle based on specific observations.

FAQs

What does it mean to "generalize from" something?

To "generalize from" something means to draw broad conclusions or make general statements based on specific examples or data. It involves extending what you've learned from a particular case to a larger population or context.

How can I avoid making incorrect generalizations?

To avoid incorrect generalizations, ensure that your sample size is sufficient, representative, and unbiased. Consider alternative explanations and be cautious when you "draw conclusions from" limited data.

What are some alternatives to "generalize from"?

You can use alternatives such as "draw conclusions from", "infer from", or "extrapolate from" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to "generalize from" a study or experiment?

It's appropriate to "generalize from" a study or experiment when the methodology is sound, the sample is representative, and the results are statistically significant. Always acknowledge any limitations of the study and consider the potential for bias.