generality

noun

gen·​er·​al·​i·​ty ˌje-nə-ˈra-lə-tē 

plural generalities

1

: the quality or state of being general

2

a

: generalization sense 2

b

: a vague or inadequate statement

3

: the greatest part : bulk

the generality of the population

Synonyms of generality

• stereotype
• concept
• notion
• conception
• generalization
• theory

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

Yet when Brand tried to drift into generalities, he was dragged back to specifics. — Luke Jones, Vanity Fair, 5 Nov. 2026

Pressed by reporters on how he’d tackle problems ranging from high-speed rail to homelessness, Becerra often dodged or spoke in generalities. — Ben Paviour, Sacbee.com, 4 Nov. 2026

And many of those generalities didn’t need to be said out loud. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 3 Nov. 2026

Because the story lines are facile fakes, because the characters are blanked out, the substance of relationships is reduced to dialogue of generalities and platitudes. — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 30 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for generality

• abnormality
• cardinality
• commonality
• communality
• cordiality
• corporeality
• criminality
• criticality
• functionality
• geniality
• hospitality
• illegality

Kids Definition

generality

noun

gen·​er·​al·​i·​ty ˌjen-ə-ˈral-ət-ē 

plural generalities

1

: the quality or state of being general

2

a

: generalization sense 2

b

: a statement that is unclear or that does not give enough information

3

: the greatest part : bulk