What does “without loss of generality” mean?
The phrase “without loss of generality” (WLOG) is a common expression used in mathematics, physics, and other scientific disciplines to indicate that a statement or argument holds true for a specific case, but can be extended to all cases within a certain class without changing the validity of the statement. In essence, it allows for the simplification of a problem or argument by focusing on a particular instance that is representative of the entire class. This concept is particularly useful when dealing with complex problems that involve multiple variables or conditions. By using WLOG, mathematicians and scientists can make their arguments more concise and easier to understand. In this article, we will explore the meaning and applications of WLOG in various fields.
