7. Generalizations

7.1. Generalizations in English

7.1.0. Overview

Although quantifier phrases are grammatically similar to individual terms, their logical function is quite different; indeed, they are to predicates what predicates are to individual terms.

7.1.1. Theories of quantifier phrases
In the history of logic, it took a couple millennia for the contemporary understanding of quantifier phrases to appear.

7.1.2. Pronouns and quantifier phrases
Pronouns with individual phrases as antencedents can be replaced by their antecedents but those with quantifier phrases as their antencedents are often ineliminable.

7.1.3. Finding quantifier phrases
Quantifier phrases are like definite descriptions in that they often include adjectival modifiers like prepositional phrases and relative clauses.

7.1.4. Kinds of generalizations
Quantifier phrases are like conditionals in that they come in a variety of forms. This means that one of the key steps in analyzing a generalization will be to classify it.

7.1.5. Bounds and exceptions
While the domain of objects about which a generalization is asserted will usually be determined by a quantifier phrase itself, there are some phrases which modify this domain from outside the quantifier phrase.