Preconceive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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preconceive

[ˌpriːkənˈsiːv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in psychology

To form a preconceived idea or opinion about (someone or something) before experiencing them or it firsthand.

Synonyms

prejudge, prejudge, prejudge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
preconceive	Used when referring to forming an opinion or idea about something before having enough evidence or experience. This term often implies a less formed or detailed opinion. He had preconceived notions about the restaurant before even trying the food. It's dangerous to preconceive ideas about someone's abilities based on their appearance.
prejudge	Used when forming a judgment or opinion before knowing all the facts, often with a negative connotation. It implies a more definitive judgment based on insufficient information. You shouldn't prejudge someone before you get to know them. The jury must not prejudge the case; they need to review all the evidence first.

Word

Description / Examples

preconceive

Used when referring to forming an opinion or idea about something before having enough evidence or experience. This term often implies a less formed or detailed opinion.

He had preconceived notions about the restaurant before even trying the food.
It's dangerous to preconceive ideas about someone's abilities based on their appearance.

prejudge

Used when forming a judgment or opinion before knowing all the facts, often with a negative connotation. It implies a more definitive judgment based on insufficient information.

You shouldn't prejudge someone before you get to know them.
The jury must not prejudge the case; they need to review all the evidence first.

Examples of usage

It is important not to preconceive a person based on stereotypes.
Try not to preconceive the outcome of the experiment before conducting it.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

general

To conceive or imagine beforehand; anticipate.

Synonyms

anticipate, envision, foresee.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
preconceive	This term is used to describe forming an idea or opinion about something before having the complete information or experience. Often implies a biased perspective. She preconceived that the lecture would be boring, even before attending it. He had preconceived notions about the new employee based on rumors.
anticipate	This word is used when expecting something to happen and preparing for it, often with a sense of excitement or readiness. We anticipate a large crowd for the concert tonight. He anticipated the outcome of the experiment before it was officially announced.
foresee	This word is used when predicting or seeing something before it happens, usually based on evidence or logical reasoning. The economist could foresee a recession based on current market trends. She could foresee the challenges they would face with the new project.
envision	This term is used when imagining or picturing something in one's mind, typically a future event or state, often with a creative or inspirational tone. She envisions a world where everyone has access to clean water. He envisioned himself achieving great success in his career.

Examples of usage

She preconceived the idea of starting her own business.
He preconceived the events that would unfold during the trip.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Preconceived notions can lead to biases, affecting how we view new information.
Cognitive biases, like anchoring, revolve around the idea of forming initial opinions that can skew our perception.

Culture

In some societies, preconceived beliefs about gender roles can impact personal and professional relationships.
Art can challenge preconceived ideas by presenting perspectives that differ from the viewer's initial thoughts.

Education

Preconceiving can hinder a student's willingness to learn; an open mind encourages better learning outcomes.
Teachers challenge students to rethink preconceived notions to promote critical thinking and creativity.

Sociology

Preconceived ideas about social classes can perpetuate stereotypes and inequality.
Understanding cultural differences helps individuals overcome preconceived judgments about others.

Origin of 'preconceive'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from Latin roots: 'prae-' meaning 'before' and 'concipere' meaning 'to take in'.
It entered English in the early 19th century, signifying the act of forming an idea ahead of time.

The word 'preconceive' originated from the combination of 'pre-' meaning before and 'conceive' meaning to form an idea. It first appeared in the English language in the early 17th century.