Notions: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used to express informal or less developed thoughts and can sometimes imply whimsical or fanciful ideas.

• She has some strange notions about how to decorate her house.
• He dismissed the outdated notions of his youth.

A general idea or understanding of something, often used in academic or professional settings to discuss theories and broad ideas.

• The concept of democracy is fundamental to many political systems.
• In physics, the concept of time is a major topic of study.

Can be used broadly for any thought, plan, or suggestion. It is often used in casual conversation to describe something someone has thought of.

• I have an idea for a new project we can work on.
• That sounds like a great idea for our vacation!

Refers to something a person holds to be true or real, often related to religion, values, or deeply held opinions.

• Her belief in justice drives her to work tirelessly in law.
• He has a strong belief in the power of education.

Used for general ideas, thoughts, or concepts that someone has, often not based on solid evidence.

• She had some strange notions about how business should be run
• His notions of happiness were quite different from hers

Refers to accepting something as true, often without definitive proof, and can be related to religion, personal values, or opinions.

• His belief in the power of kindness has always guided him
• Many people hold the belief that hard work leads to success

Refers to a personal view, judgment, or assessment about a particular matter, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge.

• In my opinion, we should take a different route
• Everyone is entitled to their own opinion on the matter

Used when someone holds a strong and firm belief or opinion, usually with confidence and certainty.

• She spoke with conviction about the importance of education
• His conviction that he was right never wavered, even when others doubted

Use 'notions' when referring to a variety of small personal ideas, often informal, or when discussing simple, perhaps naive beliefs.

• She had strange notions about how the world worked.
• His head was full of fanciful notions about becoming a rock star.

Use 'image' to refer to a mental picture or representation, often visual, that evokes specific features or perceptions.

• The image of her smiling face stayed with me.
• He tried to maintain a public image of confidence.

Use 'idea' to describe a thought, suggestion, or a potential plan that is usually simple and general.

• I have an idea for a new project.
• That's a great idea! Let's do it.

Use 'conception' to refer to a comprehensive, often sophisticated understanding or an initial stage of forming a complex idea.

• His conception of justice goes beyond the legal system.
• The conception of the plan was brilliant, but its execution failed.