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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun idea contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of idea are conception, concept, impression, notion, and thought. While all these words mean "what exists in the mind as a representation (as of something comprehended) or as a formulation (as of a plan)," idea may apply to a mental image or formulation of something seen or known or imagined, to a pure abstraction, or to something assumed or vaguely sensed.

innovative ideas
my idea of paradise

When can concept be used instead of idea?

While the synonyms concept and idea are close in meaning, concept may apply to the idea formed by consideration of instances of a species or genus or, more broadly, to any idea of what a thing ought to be.

a society with no concept of private property

How are the words conception and concept related as synonyms of idea?

Conception is often interchangeable with concept; it may stress the process of imagining or formulating rather than the result.

our changing conception of what constitutes art

When would impression be a good substitute for idea?

The meanings of impression and idea largely overlap; however, impression applies to an idea or notion resulting immediately from some stimulation of the senses.

the first impression is of soaring height

Where would notion be a reasonable alternative to idea?

The synonyms notion and idea are sometimes interchangeable, but notion suggests an idea not much resolved by analysis or reflection and may suggest the capricious or accidental.

you have the oddest notions

When is it sensible to use thought instead of idea?

The words thought and idea can be used in similar contexts, but thought is likely to suggest the result of reflecting, reasoning, or meditating rather than of imagining.

commit your thoughts to paper

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of idea Like fellow venture capitalist David Sacks — a tech adviser to Trump — and Tesla, X and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, Maguire has used social media to broadcast right-wing ideas and attack ideological foes. Ethan Baron, Mercury News, 10 July 2025 Just as the fish rise to the surface when the water is calm, your best ideas may surface when your mind is tranquil and wandering during an evening shower. Matt Fuchs, Time, 10 July 2025 Miloš had a wacky idea about Burt Reynolds for a while. Jordan Hoffman Updated, EW.com, 10 July 2025 This idea reflects Glass’s approach to whisky making. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for idea
Recent Examples of Synonyms for idea
Noun
  • The news division is, like its counterparts, experimenting with a bevy of concepts to see which ones strike a chord with the younger viewers who use streaming as their primary means of watching video.
    Brian Steinberg, Variety, 14 July 2025
  • For his new concept revitalizing the former Nash & Proper space, Jimenez is taking inspiration from popular fast food chains such as In-N-Out and Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, which have compact menus with high-quality ingredients.
    Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • The Double Shot made our reviewer's hair nice and smooth while giving it volume, and managed to give less frizz than other models.
    Boutayna Chokrane, Wired News, 9 July 2025
  • Map migration priorities to outcomes such as accelerating innovation, enabling real-time analytics or supporting new digital business models.
    Chetan Mathur, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025
Noun
  • Responses are for informational purposes only and individuals should consider whether any general recommendation in these responses are suitable for their particular circumstances based on investment objectives, financial situation and needs.
    Steve Hruby, The Enquirer, 8 July 2025
  • Jason Robertson, Dallas Stars Robertson’s name has generated early buzz this summer, but not solely for extension purposes.
    Shayna Goldman, New York Times, 8 July 2025
Noun
  • Another concerning aspect of AI's influence on our freedom of thought is its capacity to distort memory and perception.
    Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
  • Even the people in my life, letting that dumb thought go, has opened so many more doors for me.
    Michael Saponara, Billboard, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • For example, a set of blue chairs at the far end of a rectangular garden will make the space feel larger than a set of red chairs in the same place.
    Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 July 2025
  • For example, her grandmother is justifying a need to obtain a Russian passport to gain access to the health care and social services, said Maria.
    ABC News, ABC News, 12 July 2025
Noun
  • In a city where so many big plans have gone so badly for 30 years, San Diego residents shouldn’t just be wary when another bold proposal comes long — they should be terrified.
    U T Editorial Board, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 July 2025
  • For diehards, the feeds are where the real game unfolds, showmances bloom, backdoor plans are hatched, and unfiltered chaos reigns 24/7.
    Kilty Cleary, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 July 2025
Noun
  • The notion that this person is out there somewhere in the world and Charlie Cale has her Moriarty, her Lex Luthor, is very exciting.
    Jackie Strause, HollywoodReporter, 11 July 2025
  • That latter idea flows from a notion that if rescissions are proposed late in the fiscal year and Congress does not have the full 45-day period to act on any such proposals, the funds expire and become unavailable for obligation.
    Doug Criscitello, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
Noun
  • This New Balance sneaker earns top marks because its cushioned base and rubber sole are designed to cradle each step — ideal for seniors or those with foot pain.
    Alyssa Grabinski, People.com, 12 July 2025
  • Vitale Barberis Canonico presented the Intrepid Super 150’s fabric ideal for business suits.
    Andrea Onate, Footwear News, 11 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Idea.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/idea. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on idea

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