generalize
UK[ˈdʒenrəlaɪz]US[ˈdʒenrəlaɪz]
v
to make a general statement or form a general opinion that is true in most cases
v
to apply a theory, idea, or rule to a wider range of situations or people than the original one
Morpheme Breakdown
general
ize
general
of a whole class, pertaining to all
ize
Etymology
the word 'generalize' is built upon the adjective 'general', which traces back to latin 'generalis', itself derived from 'genus' meaning 'race, kind, class'. the core concept is of something pertaining to a whole group rather than specific instances. the suffix '-ize', of ancient greek origin, is a prolific verb-forming element meaning 'to render, to make into'. therefore, the literal construction is 'to make general'. this etymological logic is preserved in the modern abstract meaning: the act of moving from specific observations or cases to a broad, overarching statement or principle applicable to the entire class.
Analysis
Structure: general + ize
general (from latin 'generalis', meaning 'of a whole class, pertaining to all') + ize (verb-forming suffix from greek '-izein', via latin '-izare', indicating 'to make, to become, to act in the manner of')
Examples
it is dangerous to generalize about a whole nation from a few examples.
researchers hope to generalize their findings from the small study sample to the wider population.
she has a tendency to generalize, often saying "all politicians are corrupt."