Definition and meaning of English word "idea"
idea
/aɪˈdiːə/
Meaning
NounAn abstract archetype of a given thing, compared to which real-life examples are seen as imperfect approximations; pure essence, as opposed to actual examples.
How to use
In formal and informal contexts, 'idea' is used to describe a concept or notion that serves as a model or archetype for real-life examples. For instance, 'her idea of a perfect vacation' implies a pure essence of what she considers ideal. However, learners often misuse 'idea' as a synonym for 'thought' or 'concept', neglecting its connotation of an abstract archetype.
🇬🇧 English
idea
Example
I have an idea.
The idea is good.
Your personal vocabulary
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Common phrases
- big idea— a large or ambitious concept
- good idea— a useful or practical concept
- bright idea— a clever or innovative concept
- new idea— a fresh or original concept
- wild idea— a fanciful or impractical concept
More Abstract Concepts words
This concept in other languages
Frequency rank: #24 in English
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the English word "idea" mean?▼
The English word "idea" means "idea" in English.
How do you pronounce the English word "idea"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "idea" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "idea"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "I have an idea." (which translates as "idea").
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