presumption of generality

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "presumption of generality" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing assumptions made in logic, philosophy, or scientific reasoning where a general principle is applied to specific cases. Example: "In many scientific theories, the presumption of generality allows researchers to apply findings from a sample to a broader population."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

And there was a general presumption of Republican competence.

The New York Times

There's a kind of generality that attaches to retribution.

Yale University

Without loss of generality, assume that \(I \not⊨ φ\).

Cornell University

(again all without loss of generality).

BBC

Quantifier expressions are marks of generality.

SEP

The question permits answers at varying levels of generality.

SEP

We stipulate without loss of generality that j < α.

SEP

But Morris doesn't rest at this level of generality.

Huffington Post

Other reference groups can be used without loss of generality.

Plosone

This is done for the sake of generality.

Plosone

We sample m individuals (without loss of generality m≥N).

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "presumption of generality", ensure the context clearly indicates that you are discussing an assumption made for the sake of argument or analysis, especially in logical or scientific reasoning.

Common error

Avoid using "presumption of generality" when you actually mean that something is universally true without exception. Generality implies a broad application, but not necessarily a complete absence of exceptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "presumption of generality" functions primarily as a noun phrase. Its role is to denote an assumption that a principle or rule is generally applicable, especially within academic and scientific contexts. Although Ludwig AI has not identified direct instances of this phrase, similar phrases suggest its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Academia

33%

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "presumption of generality" is a grammatically correct noun phrase that denotes an assumption that a principle or rule is generally applicable. As Ludwig AI explains, it finds its main use in academic and scientific contexts, serving to establish a baseline assumption in logical arguments or theoretical frameworks. Though it is not frequently encountered, using it appropriately can add precision to analytical discussions. Related phrases include "general assumption" and "principle of generalization". When employing this phrase, remember to distinguish generality from universality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

General assumption

This alternative is more concise and directly highlights the assumption being made, lacking the nuance of a legal or philosophical "presumption".

Presumed general rule

Reorders the words to emphasize the rule that is presumed, rather than the act of presumption itself.

Principle of generalization

This alternative highlights a guiding principle used when extending specific cases into more general rules.

Assumption of broad applicability

This emphasizes the idea that something is assumed to be widely applicable. Focus is on applicability rather than a formal "presumption".

Overarching principle

This alternative suggests a key principle which can lead to a presumption of generality, lacking the component of "assumption".

Underlying generality

This alternative focuses on the quality of being general that forms the basis for reasoning or application. The assumption of generality is implied.

Default generality

This phrase suggests a generality that is assumed unless proven otherwise. It places focus on this state being the default one.

Universality assumption

This emphasizes the assumption that something applies universally, without exception. It underscores complete generality.

Generalization bias

This term highlights the tendency to over-generalize, which is a deviation from the ideal "presumption of generality".

Broad stroke assumption

This alternative is a more informal way of referring to a generality that is assumed, adding a sense of sweeping generalization.

FAQs

How can I use "presumption of generality" in a sentence?

You can use "presumption of generality" when discussing assumptions made in logic, philosophy, or scientific reasoning where a general principle is applied to specific cases. For example: "In many scientific theories, the "presumption of generality" allows researchers to apply findings from a sample to a broader population."

What's an alternative to "presumption of generality"?

Consider alternatives like "general assumption", "underlying generality", or "principle of generalization" depending on the context and desired emphasis.

Is there a difference between "presumption of generality" and "generalization bias"?

Yes, "presumption of generality" implies an assumption made for analytical purposes. "Generalization bias" refers to a cognitive error where individuals tend to over-generalize, making broad conclusions based on limited evidence.

In what fields is "presumption of generality" commonly used?

The phrase "presumption of generality" is frequently employed in academia, science, and philosophy. It's commonly used to discuss foundational assumptions within arguments, proofs, or theoretical frameworks.