hasty generalization

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hasty generalization" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in discussions about logical fallacies, particularly when someone makes a conclusion based on insufficient evidence. Example: "Claiming that all teenagers are irresponsible because of a few bad examples is a classic case of hasty generalization."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

The proverbial "Jeddart justice," according to which a man was hanged first and tried afterward, seems to have been a hasty generalization from the solitary summary execution of a gang of rogues.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hasty generalization Conclusions are based on limited evidence and/or some evidence is suppressed.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Hasty generalization is also present when extrapolating the results of one study after creationist re-interpretation.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Hasty generalization involves making conclusions that are based on limited sources or evidence (Walton [1999a]).

Evolution: Education and Outreach

In the category of sophisms he places ad baculum, complex question, begging the question, hasty generalization, ignoratio elenchi, equivocation, amphiboly, accent, and secundum quid.

SEP

Two new sophisms are included: one is imperfect enumeration, the error of overlooking an alternative, the other is a faulty (incomplete) induction, what we might call hasty generalization.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

False dilemmas, hasty generalizations and straw man fallacies were also common.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

A glance across Butler Field exposes why hasty generalizations about those who support the Occupy Movement fail to stick.

Huffington Post

In hasty generalizations, the authors took individual situations, inserted their own bias, and extrapolated their experience to the larger community of women and men married to service members.

Huffington Post

Hasty generalizations like this are sadly predictable, because cultured despisers never take the time to actually learn much about the religions they trash.

Huffington Post

Biomedical doctors' concerns about complications seen in patients who had previously used tribal medicine underline the need for systematic research, assessment and evaluation of safety and efficacy rather than hasty generalizations.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When evaluating arguments, be alert for instances of "hasty generalization". Look for sufficient evidence and diverse sources before accepting a claim.

Common error

Don't seek out only evidence that confirms your existing beliefs when assessing a potential "hasty generalization". Consider contradictory evidence to ensure a balanced evaluation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hasty generalization" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a type of logical fallacy. This is supported by Ludwig, which indicates that it is grammatically correct. It often appears in contexts where arguments or reasoning are being evaluated.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

29%

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hasty generalization" is a noun phrase referring to a logical fallacy where a conclusion is drawn from insufficient evidence. As Ludwig's analysis confirms, it's grammatically sound and used to critique arguments across diverse fields like science, news, and encyclopedias. When writing, remember to ensure sufficient evidence and avoid overly broad claims. The phrase is most common in news and scientific contexts, so consider its formality when incorporating it into your work. Recognizing and avoiding "hasty generalizations" enhances the credibility and accuracy of your arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

faulty generalization

This directly indicates an error in the process of generalizing, similar to "hasty generalization".

overgeneralization

This term describes the act of generalizing too broadly, extending a conclusion beyond what is warranted.

jumping to conclusions

This alternative implies drawing a conclusion prematurely, often without sufficient evidence.

premature conclusion

Similar to jumping to conclusions, this highlights the earliness of the conclusion.

broad generalization

Emphasizes the wide scope of the generalization, which may not be justified by the evidence.

unwarranted conclusion

This focuses on the lack of justification for the conclusion drawn.

sweeping statement

This suggests a broad, often inaccurate statement that applies to many cases without proper qualification.

insufficient evidence fallacy

This phrase identifies the problem as a logical fallacy arising from a lack of sufficient evidence.

making assumptions

This refers to drawing conclusions based on beliefs that may not be factual or supported by evidence.

anecdotal evidence fallacy

This identifies a reliance on personal stories rather than rigorous data to support a generalization.

FAQs

How can I identify a "hasty generalization"?

Look for conclusions drawn from limited or biased evidence. Ask yourself if the sample size is adequate and representative of the larger group being discussed.

What's the difference between "hasty generalization" and "overgeneralization"?

While similar, "hasty generalization" emphasizes the lack of evidence leading to the broad claim, while "overgeneralization" focuses on the excessively broad scope of the conclusion.

How to avoid making a "hasty generalization" in my writing?

Ensure you have sufficient and varied evidence to support your claims. Acknowledge any limitations in your data and avoid making overly broad statements.

What are some alternatives to "hasty generalization"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "jumping to conclusions", "sweeping statement", or "faulty generalization".