a commendable idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a commendable idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing approval or praise for a suggestion or concept that is worthy of admiration. Example: "The proposal to implement a recycling program in our community is truly a commendable idea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

A commendable idea, but a risky and expensive one.

The Economist

It's a commendable idea – but how significant is it?

The Guardian

Having a pair of sensible shoes is like eating spinach, a commendable idea.

The New York Times

A superstar talent doing a pop-up show in the middle of the night, though a commendable idea, turned out to be logistical nightmare that was over before it began as thousands of fans packed the street.  .

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

For those who are young and British, the idea of leaving a country with no sun and no jobs seems like a perfectly commendable idea.

Vice

In Hungary, the commendable idea of integrating Roma and non-Roma children in the same schools has sent parents scurrying elsewhere.But there are some shoots of hope.

The Economist

Now the Bush administration has reversed itself and declared its active support for the extension of the multinational peacekeeping mission known as the International Security Assistance Force ISAFfromrom Kabul to other cities.A commendable idea, people in Kabul might agree but can the Americans and their allies really mean this?

The Economist

Some participants, like Malcolm Handoll in Orkney, clearly have commendable ideas already, such as "games, candlelit dinners, chatting with friends around a fire, a walk in the park".

The Guardian

The acrimony doesn't help advance otherwise popular and commendable ideas, such as MetroCard discounts for the poor.

The New Yorker

His knowledge was appropriately encyclopaedic, and he had a commendable willingness to engage - deploying his ready wit in doing so - with opposing ideas.

The Guardian

He leapt to the front of the Democratic pack in Iowa not because he stands for new ideas, as Bill Clinton did in 1992, but because he is an establishment figure with a commendable war record.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a commendable idea", consider adding a 'but' clause to introduce potential challenges or limitations. This adds nuance and demonstrates critical thinking.

Common error

While "a commendable idea" is acceptable, overuse in formal writing can make your tone sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "an admirable approach" or "a praiseworthy initiative".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a commendable idea" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'commendable' acts as an adjective modifying the noun 'idea'. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct. It is often used to introduce a concept deserving of praise or approval.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a commendable idea" is a phrase used to express approval of a concept, suggestion, or plan. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in English. While not overly common, it appears mostly in News & Media contexts, as well as Formal & Business settings. When using this phrase, consider adding nuance by acknowledging potential challenges, and avoid overuse by varying your language with alternatives like "a praiseworthy concept" or "an admirable notion".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a praiseworthy concept

Replaces 'commendable' with 'praiseworthy', emphasizing the deserving of praise aspect.

an admirable notion

Uses 'admirable' instead of 'commendable', highlighting the inspiring quality of the idea.

a laudable plan

Substitutes 'commendable' with 'laudable', suggesting that the plan is worthy of high praise and public recognition.

a respectable proposal

Replaces 'commendable' with 'respectable', focusing on the idea's worthiness of respect and consideration.

a valuable suggestion

Emphasizes the benefit and usefulness of the suggestion, rather than its inherent quality.

a worthwhile endeavor

Shifts the focus to the action or undertaking resulting from the idea, and its overall value.

a deserving initiative

Highlights that the initiative merits attention and support.

a fine proposition

Uses 'fine' instead of 'commendable' to indicate a more general positive assessment of the idea.

a notable strategy

Emphasizes that the strategy is worthy of attention due to its uniqueness or potential impact.

a brilliant scheme

Suggests the idea is not only good, but ingenious and clever.

FAQs

How can I use "a commendable idea" in a sentence?

You can use "a commendable idea" to express approval or praise for a suggestion or plan. For instance, "Implementing renewable energy sources is "a commendable idea", but it requires significant investment."

What are some alternatives to "a commendable idea"?

Alternatives include "a praiseworthy concept", "an admirable notion", or "a laudable plan", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a commendable idea" in formal writing?

Yes, "a commendable idea" is appropriate in formal writing. However, avoid overusing it by varying your vocabulary with synonyms like "a valuable suggestion" or "a worthwhile endeavor".

What makes an idea "commendable"?

An idea is "commendable" when it is worthy of praise and approval, typically because it is well-intentioned, beneficial, or demonstrates a good understanding of the situation. It's often used when acknowledging the merit of an idea, even if it has potential drawbacks.