universal claim

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "universal claim" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a statement or assertion that is intended to apply to all cases or instances without exception. Example: "The philosopher's argument was based on a universal claim that all humans seek happiness as their ultimate goal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

And does the universal claim of a year ago – Je suis Charlie – still hold?

The Guardian

This is a universal claim in every compensation lawsuit brought in the last few years and likely will continue to be so".

The New York Times

It was to make a universal claim that human beings are born with a "moral sense," an impulse to altruism that atrophies if it is not exercised.

The New York Times - Magazine

Its theme is close to Flaubert's celebrated "Madame Bovary, c'est moi," and his Hindley figure (never named), making a ghostly appearance, asserts a similarly universal claim.

The New York Times - Books

During the 3rd and 4th centuries a new world religion appeared in the form of Manichaeanism, which asserted itself as a superior form of Christianity with a new universal claim of validity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As long ago as 1964, he recognized the tension that had accumulated "during the centuries in which Christianity and Islam each raised its universal claim but had to be satisfied with uneasily coexisting with its antagonist".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Among other things, the universal claims of liberal morality become highly questionable.

The Guardian

Universal claims that if it loses the lawsuit, it will also lose the ability to swiftly react to copyright violations.

The Guardian - Tech

The Islamists are vehement in their public insistence on dislodging the idea of secularism as universal, claiming it to be a parochial, European experience – with some justification.

The Guardian - Opinion

At the same time, Universal claimed warrants to purchase a small stake in MP3.com should its onetime renegade service prove lucrative now that it has been legalized.

The New York Times

An oft-quoted line from the show appears to make such broad universal claims when Hannah moans to her parents: "I think I may be the voice of my generation.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "universal claim", ensure that the evidence supports its broad application. Overstating a point can weaken your argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "universal claim" if the supporting data is limited or specific to a particular context. Acknowledge potential exceptions or limitations to strengthen your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "universal claim" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a statement or assertion characterized by its purported applicability to all instances or cases without exception. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in this manner.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "universal claim" denotes a statement that asserts something to be true in all instances without exception. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While grammatically sound and understandable across various contexts, it's important to acknowledge that the phrase appears relatively uncommonly, according to Ludwig's analysis. Its primary function is to categorize assertions in academic, scientific, or philosophical discussions, inviting critical evaluation of their broad applicability. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context supports the idea of something applying across the board and without exception. Be cautious about overgeneralization, and acknowledge potential exceptions where appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

all-encompassing claim

Highlights that the claim includes everything, leaving nothing out.

absolute declaration

Focuses on the unwavering and definitive nature of the declaration.

comprehensive assertion

Focuses on the thorough and complete nature of the assertion.

global assertion

Emphasizes the worldwide scope of the assertion, focusing on geographical reach.

unqualified claim

Emphasizes that the claim is made without any limitations or conditions.

categorical statement

Stresses the unconditional and all-encompassing aspect of the statement.

across-the-board statement

Indicates that the statement applies uniformly in all situations.

blanket statement

Highlights the broad and often undifferentiated nature of the statement.

general proposition

Refers to a broad statement that is proposed as a basic principle.

sweeping generalization

Implies a potentially inaccurate or overly broad assertion.

FAQs

How can I use "universal claim" in a sentence?

You can use "universal claim" to describe a statement that asserts something applies to all instances without exception. For example, "The philosopher's argument rested on the "universal claim" that all humans are inherently selfish."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "universal claim"?

Some alternatives to "universal claim" include "general assertion", "blanket statement", or "sweeping generalization", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is a "universal claim" always true?

No, a "universal claim" is not necessarily true. It's a statement that asserts something applies to all cases, but this assertion may be incorrect or based on insufficient evidence. Critical evaluation is always necessary.

What's the difference between a "universal claim" and a "common belief"?

A "universal claim" is an assertion that something is true for everyone or everything, while a "common belief" is simply an idea that many people share. A "common belief" doesn't necessarily claim to be universally applicable or objectively true.