Ideas Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Psychology

• The generation of ideas often involves divergent thinking, which allows for multiple possibilities rather than a single answer.
• Cognitive processes such as brainstorming help enhance idea flow by reducing the fear of criticism among participants.
• Research shows that being in a positive mood can foster more creative ideas, as it opens up thinking pathways.

Pop Culture

• In movies, characters often have ‘eureka’ moments where they suddenly solve a problem through an idea, often shown with dramatic music.
• Many famous works of art were born from a singular idea, leading to masterpieces that define entire movements.
• The idea of innovation has been central in the technology sector, driving advancements like smartphones and social media platforms.

History

• The Age of Enlightenment gave rise to revolutionary ideas about democracy and individual rights that shaped modern governments.
• Philosophers like Plato and Aristotle explored the nature of ideas, influencing Western thought for centuries.
• Innovative ideas in agriculture during the Industrial Revolution transformed societies, improving food production and economic growth.

Science

• Ideas in the scientific community often build on each other; one researcher’s idea can lead to breakthroughs in various fields.
• The scientific method encourages the formulation of hypotheses, which are essentially educated ideas that can be tested.
• Many significant scientific discoveries first began as simple ideas that challenged existing beliefs.

Literature

• Many writers have explored the nature of ideas in their works, debating how they influence human behavior and society.
• Fiction often uses the development of a central idea to drive the plot, leading characters through challenges and conflicts.
• Notable literary movements have arisen from a collective set of ideas, shaping genres and styles throughout history.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Greek 'idea', meaning 'form' or 'appearance', reflecting how ideas shape our understanding of the world.
• In Latin, 'idea' was used in philosophy to represent concepts or forms of things in the mind.
• The evolution of this term in European languages shows its importance in developing philosophical thought.

The word 'ideas' originates from the Latin word 'ideae', which means 'form, pattern, concept'. In philosophy, the concept of ideas has been explored by thinkers such as Plato and Aristotle. Over time, the term has come to encompass a wide range of meanings, from creative thoughts to philosophical beliefs.

See also: idea, ideate, ideation, ideational, ideology.

Positioned at #1,070, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

• ...
• 1067 foot
• 1068 ordinary
• 1069 resolution
• 1070 ideas
• 1071 husband
• 1072 represented
• 1073 subjects
• ...