ji5 pin1 koi3 cyun4以偏概全
Definition
Hasty generalization; a logical fallacy of drawing a general conclusion based on biased or insufficient evidence.
How it's used
This idiom is frequently used in critical discussions or debates to point out flawed logic in someone's argument. It carries a formal tone despite being used in everyday speech, often serving as a sharp rebuttal when someone makes an oversimplified claim based on limited evidence. It is a four-character idiom that functions as a verb phrase or an adjective phrase describing a type of thinking.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple description of being biased or prejudiced, but it specifically refers to the logical error of taking a small sample size to represent the whole. It is not used to describe personal dislike or unfair treatment.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
