yleistäväinen

yleistäväinen is a Finnish adjective that translates to "generalizing" or "broadening" in English. It is derived from the noun "yleistys," which means "generalization." The adjective describes something that tends to make broad statements, apply concepts widely, or overlook specific details in favor of a larger pattern.

In everyday language, yleistäväinen can describe a person's tendency to form opinions or judgments based on limited information or to see similarities between disparate things. For example, someone who is yleistäväinen might make a sweeping statement about an entire group of people based on the actions of a few. It can also refer to a style of thinking or expression that prioritizes general principles over specific instances.

In academic or intellectual contexts, the term can be used to describe theories or approaches that aim to explain phenomena broadly. A yleistäväinen theory seeks to encompass a wide range of data and observations under a single framework. However, it can also carry a slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of precision or an oversimplification of complex issues. The opposite of yleistäväinen might be "erityispiirteitä korostava" (emphasizing specific features) or "tarkkarajainen" (well-defined). Understanding whether the generalizing tendency is helpful or detrimental often depends on the specific context.