idea

noun

ī-ˈdē-ə How to pronounce idea (audio)
Definition of ideanext
1
as in concept
something imagined or pictured in the mind my idea of the perfect vacation spot is an uncrowded, unspoiled beach

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in model
someone of such unequaled perfection as to deserve imitation Helen Keller remains my idea of a person with indomitable spirit

Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in purpose
something that one hopes or intends to accomplish the idea is to get the information without seeming to be nosy

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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
  1. concept
  2. model
  3. purpose
  4. thought
  5. example
  6. plan
  7. notion
  8. ideal
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
Definition of concept
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
Definition of model
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
  • The well was bundled together with another for contracting purposes, and the cost to plug the two was more than $400,000.
    — Camila Domonoske, NPR, 8 July 2025
Definition of purpose
Noun
  • The bandmates piggyback off each other’s thoughts and finish one another’s sentences without any interjection feeling like an interruption.
    — Leah Lu, Rolling Stone, 15 July 2025
  • To no surprise, viewers swarmed the TikTok video's comment section with their thoughts.
    — Skyler Caruso, People.com, 15 July 2025
Definition of thought
Noun
  • The Tommy Bahama, for example, is loaded with useful features—without adding bulk.
    — Melanie Fincher, Southern Living, 12 July 2025
  • Jurgen Klopp, the former Liverpool manager, has called it the worst idea in the history of the sport, for example.
    — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 12 July 2025
Definition of example
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
  • Unsurprisingly, Luthor already has an evil plan in the works, this time involving the use of Kryptonite crystals to grow a new continent, which will kill billions.
    — Will Harris, EW.com, 11 July 2025
Definition of plan
Noun
  • 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
  • But the fundamental notion to be grasped is one of purpose.
    — John Updike, New Yorker, 11 July 2025
Definition of notion
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
  • Of course, several ideals may come into play at once.
    — Dax Dasilva, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
Definition of ideal

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Cite this Entry

“Idea.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/idea. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on idea

Nglish: Translation of idea for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about idea

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