high level of generality

USAGE SUMMARY

"high level of generality" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe an idea or concept that is stated in broad, abstract terms without including specifics. For example, "The policy statement was written at a high level of generality, so it's not clear how it will be implemented."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

As we raise the question of good government to a high level of generality, the concern becomes the general welfare or well-being of people.

Columbia University

The language of the commentary also adheres to a high level of generality.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But, again, we do not define clearly established law at such a "high level of generality". Ashcroft v. al-Kidd, 563 U. S. ___, ___ (2011) (slip op., at 10).

Cornell University

The system includes software that allows users to describe, at a high level of generality, the experiments they wish to conduct.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Speaking at a high level of generality, domestic and international disaster recovery has traditionally focused on rebuilding to the status quo ante.

Columbia University

And that instinct comes from knowing what you truly believe, not vaguely or at a high level of generality or "values", but practical, on the ground, everyday-life conviction.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

The litigation over where the line should be drawn in a particular class of cases would inject the same 'massive evidence and complicated theories' into treble-damages proceedings, albeit at a somewhat higher level of generality". Id., at 744-745, 97 S.Ct., at 2074.

Cornell University

At a higher level of generality the set of models in turn form a nascent theory.

Smart Learning Environments

Rather, it concerns issues that are in some sense the most fundamental or at the highest level of generality.

SEP

The predicate labels are set at a higher level of generality than the words of the text to show connectivity and intentions.

Smart Learning Environments

At a higher level of generality, we might dispute whether or not one kind of thing, A, is also of another kind, B. For instance, we might dispute whether or not oxen are of the kind four-footed animals.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "high level of generality", ensure that the context provides sufficient information for the reader to understand the broader concept being discussed, as excessive generality can lead to ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "high level of generality" as a substitute for critical analysis or specific details. While it's useful for outlining broad concepts, always support it with concrete examples or evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "high level of generality" functions as a noun phrase, often used to describe the degree to which a concept, statement, or argument is abstract and lacking in specific details. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Academia

40%

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "high level of generality" is a grammatically correct and useful term for describing concepts or statements that are broad and abstract, lacking specific details. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is acceptable for use in written English. While not exceptionally common, it finds frequent use in academic, scientific, and news contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by balancing broad statements with concrete examples to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases such as "abstract concept" or "broad generalization" may also serve as effective alternatives, depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

abstract concept

Focuses on the conceptual nature of being general, omitting the level aspect.

high degree of abstraction

Uses degree instead of level and focuses on abstraction.

broad generalization

Emphasizes the act of generalizing, replacing the 'level' metaphor with 'broad'.

general abstraction

Swaps the order and combines generality and abstraction into a single concept.

overall generality

Replaces "high level" with "overall" to describe generality.

sweeping statement

Implies a broad statement that might lack specific details or qualifications.

vague notion

Highlights the lack of clarity or precision in the concept.

general idea

Focuses on the basic and non-specific nature of an idea.

broad scope

Shifts the focus to the extent or range covered by the concept.

general terms

Emphasizes the use of non-specific language or terminology.

FAQs

How can I use "high level of generality" in a sentence?

You can use "high level of generality" to describe something that is broad, abstract, and not specific. For instance, "The legal document was drafted at a "high level of generality", lacking specific details."

What does it mean to speak at a "high level of generality"?

Speaking at a "high level of generality" means discussing topics in a broad, non-specific way, often focusing on overarching themes rather than particular details. It involves abstraction and generalization.

What are some alternatives to "high level of generality"?

You can use alternatives like "abstract concept", "broad generalization", or "general abstraction" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use a "high level of generality" in writing?

While using a "high level of generality" can be useful for outlining broad ideas or concepts, it's essential to balance it with specific details and examples to avoid ambiguity and ensure clarity for the reader.