sweeping statements

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sweeping statements" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to a general statement that is made without considering specific details or exceptions. You can use this phrase when discussing someone's argument or opinion, and you want to point out that it is too broad or exaggerated. Example: "His article is full of sweeping statements about millennials being lazy and entitled, but he fails to recognize the individual struggles and successes within this generation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He now collects Broad Generalizations or Sweeping Statements.

The New Yorker

Or it could be neither of those grand, sweeping statements, and just a clever marketing ploy to shift more clothes.

Independent

He does not utter sweeping statements about the disconnect of modern society and the salvation that the Internet offers.

The New York Times

Media reports that make sweeping statements blaming callous and uncaring NHS staff risk damaging their sense of wellbeing and value.

The Guardian

Criticism from our friends is appreciated, but sweeping statements based on oversimplification do more harm than good for Hungary — and for your readers.

The New York Times

Calling the ruling a "qualified victory for Arizona," Kris Kobach, a constitutional lawyer who helped to write S.B. 1070, said the court had avoided sweeping statements.

The New York Times

"The problem is complex, so it is hard to come up with sweeping statements like biofuels are good or bad," he said.

The New York Times - Science

Such sweeping statements do contribute to xenophobia and do nothing to effectively engage Muslims.

Huffington Post

We must encourage them to question sweeping statements that jump to conclusions.

Huffington Post

Don't generalize: You know how you hate sweeping statements about your generation?

Huffington Post

He embraced his past racist words and lambasted the use of sweeping statements as an indictment against any race.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Before making a "sweeping statement", consider whether there are exceptions or counterarguments that need to be acknowledged.

Common error

Avoid using "sweeping statements" as a substitute for in-depth analysis. Ensure that your arguments are well-supported by evidence rather than broad pronouncements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sweeping statements" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the subject complement. It refers to general claims or assertions that are broad and lack specific details. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sweeping statements" are broad generalizations that often lack specific details and evidence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used, especially in News & Media and scientific contexts. While it is a neutral term, it often carries a critical connotation, highlighting the need for nuance and detailed analysis. To avoid making inaccurate claims, it's best to balance broad statements with supporting evidence and qualifications. Alternative phrases like "broad generalizations" or "overgeneralizations" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broad generalizations

Focuses on the act of generalizing broadly, similar to making a sweeping statement.

blanket statements

Implies the statement covers everything without exception, similar to a sweeping statement.

overgeneralizations

Highlights the error of generalizing too much from limited evidence.

categorical statements

Indicates the statements are absolute and without exceptions, resembling sweeping statements.

overly broad assertions

Highlights that the assertion is too wide in scope and not adequately supported.

general statements

A more neutral term for statements that are not specific.

grand pronouncements

Emphasizes the formality and often the arrogance of making sweeping statements.

simplistic claims

Suggests that the claims are too simple and do not capture the complexity of the issue.

unfounded assertions

Implies the assertions have no basis in reality or evidence.

unsubstantiated claims

Focuses on the lack of evidence supporting the statements.

FAQs

How can I use "sweeping statements" in a sentence?

You can use "sweeping statements" to describe generalizations or broad claims that may lack nuance or evidence. For example, "The politician's speech was filled with "sweeping statements" about the economy".

What's a good alternative to "sweeping statements"?

Alternatives include "broad generalizations", "overgeneralizations", or "general statements", depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always bad to make "sweeping statements"?

While "sweeping statements" can be useful for summarizing complex issues, they often lack the nuance and detail needed for a thorough understanding. It's important to balance broad claims with specific evidence and qualifications.

What is the difference between "sweeping statements" and "general statements"?

"General statements" are broad but not necessarily inaccurate, while "sweeping statements" often imply an oversimplification or exaggeration. The term "sweeping statements" typically carries a more negative connotation.