general-to-specific reasoning
nounA way of thinking that starts with a big idea and then moves to smaller details.
Using general-to-specific reasoning, she first described all animals and then explained why dogs are mammals.
SYNONYMS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A teaching method that gives the overall picture before explaining the small parts.
The teacher used general-to-specific reasoning by showing the whole map before naming each street.
3. A writing pattern that opens with a main claim and then supports it with details.
His essay used general-to-specific reasoning, starting with a broad statement about pollution and ending with local examples.
4. A problem-solving approach that narrows a wide range of options down to one answer.
Through general-to-specific reasoning, the detective ruled out whole categories of suspects before focusing on one person.