idea
/aɪˈdiːə/
NOUN
1. An abstract archetype or perfect essence
An abstract or ideal form of something that serves as a standard against which actual examples are understood or compared.
1.1. Ideal forms and archetypes
An abstract model or fundamental pattern representing the essential or perfect form of something.
Synonyms
Examples
- The philosopher explored the idea of justice as an abstract ideal.
- The concept of a perfect society remains an enduring philosophical idea.
Related Words
- essence
- abstraction
- quintessence
- exemplar
- exemplification
- perfection
- universal
NOUN
2. A mental image or representation
A picture, representation, or conception of an object, person, or situation formed in the mind or recalled from memory.
2.1. Mental images and visual representations
A mental picture or representation of something imagined, remembered, or conceived.
Synonyms
- image
- mental picture
- conception
- impression
- visualization
Examples
- She had a clear idea of what her childhood home looked like.
- The description gave me an idea of the landscape.
Related Words
- imagination
- memory
- perception
- mental image
- imagery
- recollection
NOUN
3. A thought, concept, or way of thinking
A product of mental activity, expressed as a thought, notion, belief, or understanding about something.
3.1. Thoughts and concepts
A mental concept or thought that expresses an understanding, interpretation, or consideration of a subject.
Synonyms
- thought
- notion
- concept
- conception
- impression
- perception
Examples
- She had a brilliant idea for the upcoming project.
- Sharing your creative idea during the brainstorming session is encouraged.
- The team discussed each idea thoroughly before making a decision.
Related Words
- cognition
- thinking
- reflection
- reasoning
- intellection
- understanding
- observation
3.2. Beliefs and opinions
A thought or conviction expressing what someone believes, assumes, or thinks about a particular subject.
Synonyms
Examples
- His idea about the causes of the problem differed from everyone else's opinion.
Related Words
- doctrine
- principle
- theory
- supposition
- preconception
- perspective
NOUN
4. A plan or intention
A conception of something intended to be done, including a proposed course of action or an arrangement for achieving a particular result.
4.1. Plans and proposed actions
A proposed arrangement, design, or course of action intended to accomplish something.
Synonyms
Examples
- The team developed an idea for improving the company's customer service.
- Her idea was to organize a community event during the holidays.
Related Words
- strategy
- blueprint
- preparation
- arrangement
- planning
- implementation
4.2. Intentions and purposes
A mental determination or intention to carry out a particular action or achieve a desired outcome.
Synonyms
- intention
- intent
- purpose
- design
Examples
- I have no idea of leaving the project unfinished.
Related Words
- determination
- objective
- motivation
- resolve
- aim
NOUN
5. An aim or goal
A purposeful objective or desired result that someone intends to achieve.
5.1. Goals and objectives
A desired outcome or target that guides someone's efforts, decisions, or activities.
Synonyms
Examples
- It's always good to have a clear idea of your goals and objectives.
- The main idea of the campaign was to increase public awareness.
Related Words
- aspiration
- destination
- intention
- mission
- end
- desired result
NOUN
6. A vague notion or intuition
An uncertain, incomplete, or fanciful thought, feeling, or impression about something, often based on intuition rather than definite knowledge.
6.1. Hunches and intuitive impressions
An uncertain feeling or preliminary understanding about something without sufficient evidence or clear reasoning.
Synonyms
- hunch
- inkling
- impression
- suspicion
- presentiment
Examples
- I had an idea that something unusual was about to happen.
- She had a vague idea of who might be responsible.
Related Words
6.2. Fanciful thoughts and whims
An imaginative, unusual, or sometimes unrealistic notion that may arise spontaneously without careful consideration.
Synonyms
Examples
- The idea of traveling around the world on a bicycle seemed like a wonderful dream.
Related Words
NOUN
7. A musical theme or melodic subject
A recognizable musical theme, motif, or melodic subject developed or repeated within a musical composition.
7.1. Musical themes and motifs
A distinctive melody or musical subject that forms a recognizable element of a composition.
Synonyms
Examples
- The composer introduced a musical idea that returned throughout the symphony.