idea

[ahy-dee-uh, ahy-deeuh] / aɪˈdi ə, aɪˈdiə /

NOUN

a conception or thought.

Synonyms

STRONGEST

belief concept conception conclusion design feeling form intention interpretation meaning notion objective opinion perception plan scheme sense solution suggestion theory thought understanding view

STRONG

aim approximation brainstorm clue conviction doctrine essence estimate fancy flash guess hint hypothesis import impression inkling intimation judgment object pattern purpose reason significance suspicion teaching viewpoint

Antonyms

STRONGEST

reality thing

STRONG

insignificance measurement truth

Usage

What are other ways to say idea? The noun idea, although it may refer to thoughts of any degree of seriousness or triviality, is commonly used for mental concepts considered more important or elaborate: We pondered the idea of the fourth dimension. The idea of his arrival frightened me. Thought, which reflects its primary emphasis on the mental process, may denote any concept except the more weighty and elaborate ones: I welcomed his thoughts on the subject. A thought came to him. Conception suggests a thought that seems complete, individual, recent, or somewhat intricate: The architect's conception delighted them. Notion suggests a fleeting, vague, or imperfect thought: a bare notion of how to proceed.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

SoCalGas’ proposal stems from state policy to slash climate pollution from gas utility systems — a good idea, but a threat to utility profits.

From Los Angeles Times

The documentary films and series that captured our attention this year feature famous people and ordinary people, as well as new ideas and perspectives.

From Los Angeles Times

“I have no idea what the reaction will be to your re-entry into society,” Siegal wrote to him after his release from jail.

From Los Angeles Times

Spears says of their Prodigal Son-inspired short, “It’s our way of showing how far God would go, across the divide. Everyone can identify with the idea of forgiveness and unearned grace.”

From Los Angeles Times

The idea is that market movers are “trying to wrap up their positions before the market is closed longer than it normally would be,” said Albertson.

From Barron's

idea

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words