generalize /(?)/

imp. & p. p. Generalized; p. pr. & vb. n. Generalizing

1. To bring under a genus or under genera; to view in relation to a genus or to genera.

   Copernicus generalized the celestial motions by merely referring them to the moon's motion. Newton generalized them still more by referring this last to the motion of a stone through the air.

2. To apply to other genera or classes; to use with a more extensive application; to extend so as to include all special cases; to make universal in application, as a formula or rule.

   When a fact is generalized, our discontent is quited, and we consider the generality itself as tantamount to an explanation.

3. To derive or deduce (a general conception, or a general principle) from particulars.

   A mere conclusion generalized from a great multitude of facts.

4. To speak in generalities; to talk in abstract terms.

1. To form into a genus; to view objects in their relations to a genus or class; to take general or comprehensive views.