Pronunciation

/aɪˈdiə/

Definitions

• Noun: A thought, suggestion, or plan that is formed in the mind; a concept or notion. For example: “She had an innovative idea for a new app.”
  • Also, something that may be or is imagined; a conception or image in the mind. For instance: “The idea of a perfect society is often debated among philosophers.”
• Verb (usually in passive form): To think or believe something to be true; to consider or suppose. For example: “Idea has it that he’s going to resign from his position soon.”

Phrases

• “Get an idea”: To form a thought or understanding about something. Example: “After reading the book, I got an idea of how complex the issue really was.”
• “Have an idea”: To possess a thought or suggestion. Example: “She had an idea for improving the company’s marketing strategy.”
• “On the idea of”: In consideration of or with reference to a particular thought or suggestion. Example: “They’re working on the idea of launching a new product line.”

Example Sentences

• Noun: “His idea revolutionized the industry and led to groundbreaking innovations.”
• As a passive verb: “It is generally thought that climate change is caused by human activity; this idea is supported by scientific research.”

Synonyms

• Concept
• Thought
• Notion
• Suggestion
• Invention
• Inspiration
• Vision
• Plan
• Proposal
• Conception

Note: Idea is not typically used as a verb in the active voice, but rather appears in passive constructions as shown above.