Idea: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'idea' when you have a general thought or suggestion. It's often used in both casual and formal conversations when proposing something.

• I have an idea for our next project.
• The idea of traveling to Japan excites me.

Use 'concept' when referring to a more abstract or theoretical notion, often used in academic or professional discussions.

• The concept of democracy is central to our society.
• Quantum mechanics is a difficult concept to grasp.

Use 'notion' when referring to an individual, often more whimsical or informal idea or belief.

• She had a strange notion about aliens visiting Earth.
• He dismissed the notion of quitting his job.

Use 'thought' when referring to the process of thinking or a consideration. Often used to describe fleeting or individual moments of thinking.

• I had a sudden thought about the meeting tomorrow.
• She couldn't get the thought of him out of her mind.

Use 'belief' when talking about something that someone accepts as true or real, often related to moral or personal principles.

• Her belief in hard work is admirable.
• He holds the belief that honesty is the best policy.

A general term for a thought or plan. It fits well in most everyday and professional contexts when you are talking about a new thought, plan, or solution.

• I have an idea for the project
• That's a great idea!

Used when an idea is driven by creativity, motivation, or an emotional experience. Suitable in artistic or motivational contexts.

• The beautiful scenery was an inspiration for her painting
• He drew inspiration from his hardships

Used for sudden, clever thoughts that come unexpectedly, often in informal contexts.

• He had a brainwave while taking a shower
• That brainwave solved all our problems!

Often used in contexts where you talk about future plans, ambitious goals, or a clear, long-term idea. It may imply a grand or innovative plan.

• She has a clear vision for the future of the company
• His vision changed the course of the industry

Typically used in more formal or academic settings to refer to the formation of an idea or plan, including its earliest stages.

• The conception of the new theory took years of research
• Our conception of the project changed after the feedback

Used for an initial thought or plan for something new. It can be very general and is often used in brainstorming.

• I have an idea for a new project
• She shared her idea with the team

A more developed idea, often used in academic, philosophical, or technical contexts. It represents a generalized abstract thought.

• The concept of freedom is central to the constitution
• She explained the concept of gravity to the children

Refers to a fundamental truth or rule that serves as the foundation for a system of belief, behavior, or reasoning. Often denotes an ethical standard.

• He always acts according to his principles
• The principle of fairness is important in any justice system

Refers to something accepted as true or real, often without proof. It can be tied to personal, religious, or cultural systems.

• His belief in hard work helped him succeed
• Many people have a belief in life after death

Usually refers to a body of teachings or policies, especially in a religious or political context. It often has a formal or established connotation.

• The church follows a strict doctrine
• The military doctrine was revised after the war