generality

noun

gen·​er·​al·​i·​ty ˌje-nə-ˈra-lə-tē How to pronounce generality (audio)
plural generalities
1
: the quality or state of being general
2
b
: a vague or inadequate statement
3
: the greatest part : bulk
the generality of the population

Examples of generality in a Sentence

He spoke in generalities as he discussed his plans for the future. I noticed the generality of the language he used in discussing his plans.
Recent Examples on the Web Kendrick did, however, open up in May 2020 about generalities in her past relationships. Emily Krauser, People.com, 18 Oct. 2024 Former British leaders Tony Blair, Gordon Brown and David Cameron all did so but only in generalities and without the same level of vivid detail as Johnson. Lauren Said-Moorhouse, CNN, 1 Oct. 2024 Japan's system has been lauded for its generality and ease of use, but there is still a large stigma attached to it in the country, leading to lower uptake. Katharina Buchholz, Forbes, 25 Sep. 2024 This is where satirists like Stewart can help fill in the gaps: By juxtaposing populist authoritarians’ glittering generalities with the ugly reality of life under authoritarianism. Dannagal G. Young, The Conversation, 22 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for generality 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'generality.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of generality was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near generality

Cite this Entry

“Generality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/generality. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

generality

noun
gen·​er·​al·​i·​ty ˌjen-ə-ˈral-ət-ē How to pronounce generality (audio)
plural generalities
1
: the quality or state of being general
2
b
: a statement that is unclear or that does not give enough information
3
: the greatest part : bulk

More from Merriam-Webster on generality

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