make sweeping generalizations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make sweeping generalizations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of making broad statements or conclusions that may not accurately reflect the complexity of a situation or group. Example: "It's important to avoid making sweeping generalizations about people based on their appearance or background."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

They insist they're not against conductors but make sweeping generalizations about them nonetheless.

The New York Times - Arts

Obviously, you can't make sweeping generalizations about society on the basis of college students' behavior.

The New York Times - Magazine

A conversation in London with Ivor Guest, the distinguished dance historian, reminded me of how misleading it can be to make sweeping generalizations.

The New York Times - Arts

Moreover, the fastest growing job title is not "independent contractor" but "cashier" -- a fact that anyone who sets out to make sweeping generalizations about the changing nature of work in America must come to grips with.

The New York Times - Magazine

While it's hard to make sweeping generalizations about anything lately, some people seem to have realized that even though Grandma and Grandpa still haven't figured out the VCR, they may know something more important.

The New York Times - Style

When you know and admire a Muslim or an atheist, it no longer makes much sense to make sweeping generalizations about either group as made up of fanatics or bigots.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

David Conte, the chief scout of the Devils, said he is wary of making sweeping generalizations.

The New York Times - Sports

He has little inclination for historical analysis, and he makes sweeping generalizations where specificity might help.

The New Yorker

I'm not one for making sweeping generalizations off one victory.

The New York Times - Sports

Sometimes, this becomes clear when the study makes sweeping generalizations about results that only apply to a few.

Harvard University

Most existing literature and aid have made sweeping generalizations about Yazidis, the challenges they face and their needs.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Acknowledge the limitations of your statements when discussing trends or patterns to avoid sounding overly assertive or dismissive of individual differences.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "make sweeping generalizations" without acknowledging the potential for exceptions or variations within the group being discussed. This can lead to misrepresentation and reinforce stereotypes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make sweeping generalizations" functions as a verb phrase. It typically introduces a statement or action describing the act of creating broad, often unsubstantiated claims. Ludwig AI examples show its use in warning against such claims.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make sweeping generalizations" is a common expression used to describe the act of creating broad, often inaccurate statements. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it typically carries a negative connotation, serving to caution against oversimplification and bias. Usage spans across various contexts, with a strong presence in news and media, reflecting its role in critical analysis and balanced reporting. To avoid this pitfall, focus on specific examples and evidence, acknowledging the limitations of your claims.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make sweeping statements

Replaces "generalizations" with "statements", emphasizing the utterance.

draw broad conclusions

Focuses on the act of concluding based on limited information.

formulate generalizations

Emphasizes the creation or development of general statements.

make broad assumptions

Highlights the act of assuming something is true for a large group.

generalize broadly

Adverbial form, focusing on the extent of the generalization.

make categorical claims

Emphasizes the definitive and absolute nature of the statements.

oversimplify matters

Highlights the act of simplifying complex issues to an excessive degree.

draw universal inferences

Focuses on creating assumptions about the entire group.

form broad perceptions

Highlights the subjective nature of the generalizations as perceptions.

formulate overarching theories

Refers to the creation of theories that encompass a wide range of phenomena.

FAQs

What does it mean to "make sweeping generalizations"?

To "make sweeping generalizations" means to create broad statements about a group of people or things based on limited evidence, often ignoring individual differences or nuances.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "make sweeping generalizations"?

The phrase "make sweeping generalizations" is typically used when critiquing or warning against oversimplified or inaccurate claims, not when making the claims themselves.

What can I say instead of "make sweeping generalizations"?

You can use alternatives like "draw broad conclusions", "make broad assumptions", or "oversimplify matters" depending on the context.

How do I avoid "making sweeping generalizations" in my writing?

To avoid "making sweeping generalizations", focus on specific examples, acknowledge limitations, and avoid assuming that all members of a group are the same. Provide evidence to support claims and consider alternative perspectives.