simplistic generalization

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'simplistic generalization' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in formal writing or casual conversation when referring to a generalization that is overly simple and not reflective of the complexity of the situation. For example, "This simplistic generalization fails to capture the nuances of the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

This type of projection leads to many simplistic generalization but they are the core of American political thought.

The New Yorker

This reluctant statement is a simplistic generalization.

Science Magazine

In a simplistic generalization, unbundling would remove the subsidization of pay TV, banishing the requirement for every pay TV subscriber to bear the cost of content that only a portion of the subscriber base actually wants and consumes, e.g., sports content, typically the most expensive channels.

TechCrunch

However, this simplistic generalization does not hold in many cases depending on how the pieces are arranged, either side may be able to fight back on the flank where they are theoretically weaker.

Wikipedia

Like their animal counterparts, plant mitochondrial genomes generally are characterized as circular chromosomes [ 1] (barring notable exceptions, e.g., [ 2, 3]) that contain a variable number of genes interspersed within non-coding DNA; however, this simplistic generalization belies the dynamic and complex nature of plant mitochondrial genomes [ 4].

BMC Genomics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Not only does the narrator explain Danny's methods with unprovocative truisms, he also packages his characters in simplistic generalizations.

The New York Times - Books

And there is some self-mocking in the scenes of Americans making simplistic generalizations about the French.

The New York Times

With one role player in traditional Arab dress depicting "what a Middle Eastern terrorist would be like," we can only fear what other simplistic generalizations are brainwashing these future guardians of America.

The New York Times

Those who acknowledge the reality of the trans condition will also accept the obvious point that these simplistic generalizations don't square with observed experience.

Huffington Post

Such dry, over-simplistic generalizations do not accurately represent what the people of the United States feel specifically.

Huffington Post

And in both novels the authors give us only the most clichéd — and generic — of takes on the worlds their characters inhabit and the most simplistic of generalizations.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "simplistic generalization", provide specific examples of how the generalization falls short. This adds credibility to your analysis and helps readers understand the complexities involved.

Common error

Be careful not to overuse "simplistic generalization" as a dismissive label. Instead, explain why a particular generalization is problematic and offer a more nuanced perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simplistic generalization" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific type of statement. As supported by Ludwig, this phrase is used to label a statement that is seen as overly simple and lacking nuance. The Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in formal writing.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "simplistic generalization" accurately describes an oversimplified statement that lacks nuance and complexity. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability. While the phrase appears relatively infrequently, it's useful for critically assessing arguments in News & Media, Science, and Wiki contexts. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to provide specific examples of how the generalization is flawed to strengthen your critique. Consider alternatives such as "oversimplified statement", "crude generalization", or "broad generalization" to fine-tune your meaning. Avoid using the phrase dismissively; instead, offer a more comprehensive explanation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overly simple generalization

Emphasizes the excessive simplicity of the generalization.

crude generalization

Highlights the lack of refinement and sophistication in the generalization.

oversimplified statement

Focuses on the act of simplifying rather than the resulting generalization.

broad generalization

Indicates that the generalization covers a wide range but may lack detail.

sweeping statement

Suggests a generalization that is extensive and possibly inaccurate.

facile generalization

Implies that the generalization is easily made without sufficient thought.

basic generalization

Highlights the fundamental and potentially inadequate nature of the generalization.

reductionist generalization

Points out that the generalization reduces complexity too much.

shallow generalization

Indicates a lack of depth and thoroughness in the generalization.

naive generalization

Suggests that the generalization stems from a lack of experience or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "simplistic generalization" in a sentence?

You can use "simplistic generalization" to describe a statement that oversimplifies a complex issue. For example: "Reducing the problem to a single cause is a "simplistic generalization" that ignores other contributing factors."

What's the difference between "simplistic generalization" and "stereotype"?

While both involve generalizations, a "simplistic generalization" is a broad statement that may overlook nuances, whereas a stereotype is a widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing. Stereotypes are often negative and based on prejudice.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "simplistic generalization"?

Some alternatives include "oversimplified statement", "crude generalization", or "broad generalization", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the term "simplistic generalization"?

It's appropriate to use "simplistic generalization" when you want to critique a statement that lacks complexity and fails to account for relevant details or exceptions.