sweeping generalization
noun phraseUK /ˈswiːpɪŋ ˌdʒenrəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/
US /ˈswiːpɪŋ ˌdʒenrələˈzeɪʃn/
A sweeping generalization is a big claim that says something is true for everyone or everything, even though it is not.
Saying that all cats hate water is a sweeping generalization.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A conclusion drawn from too few examples and applied to a whole group.
His sweeping generalization about teenagers came from meeting just two of them.
3. A statement so broad that it ignores important exceptions.
The report's sweeping generalization about the economy hid many local differences.
4. A claim used in an argument that skips over details and evidence.
Her essay was full of sweeping generalizations instead of facts.