a fixed idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fixed idea" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means a strong belief or concept that someone holds onto and is unwilling to change. Example: Despite the evidence presented, she held onto her fixed idea that the moon landing was faked.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

There's a fixed idea of what foreign journalists visiting Tehran can expect.

The Guardian - Opinion

You can achieve this only when you achieve control over a fixed idea".

The New Yorker

For me, art shouldn't be a fixed idea that I have before I start making it.

The New York Times - Arts

"We are gentle, yet there are some clients that have a fixed idea," he replied.

The New Yorker

This is one way in which the connection between terrorism and Iraq became a fixed idea.

The New Yorker

Long ago I learned that when he has a fixed idea in his head, stalling maneuvers are the best defense.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

"There's a very fixed idea of what an apartment needs to be", she said.

The Guardian

"There is a pretty fixed idea about how things should be done in the opera world.

The Guardian - Music

It worked with 'In Rainbows' because we had a real fixed idea about where we were going.

The New York Times

"If you come in with a very fixed idea of what you want, then you are going to struggle," says Hubbard. "Because the nature of the beast is that you keep having to give way and find an alternative way of getting there".

Independent

Idée fixe, ( French: "fixed idea") in music and literature, a recurring theme or character trait that serves as the structural foundation of a work.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a fixed idea" to describe a belief or concept that is firmly held and unlikely to change, even in the face of contradictory evidence. This implies a certain rigidity in thinking.

Common error

Avoid using "a fixed idea" when you mean to describe someone who is receptive to new information and willing to change their mind. The phrase carries a connotation of inflexibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fixed idea" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. As noted by Ludwig AI, it denotes a firmly held belief or concept. It modifies a noun, adding specificity to the type of idea being discussed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a fixed idea" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a firmly held belief or concept. As Ludwig AI states, it suggests a strong conviction that is resistant to change. Analysis of various sources indicates it’s most frequently found in news and media contexts, with a neutral register making it appropriate for diverse settings. When using this phrase, consider the potential for negative connotations associated with inflexibility, and choose it when that nuance aligns with your intended meaning. Be aware of alternative phrases such as "a preconceived notion" or "a firm belief", which may offer subtle differences in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preconceived notion

Emphasizes that the idea was formed beforehand, potentially without complete information.

a firm belief

Highlights the strength and conviction with which the idea is held.

a set opinion

Focuses on the resistance to changing the viewpoint.

an entrenched view

Suggests the idea is deeply rooted and difficult to dislodge.

an obsession

Implies the idea is consuming and potentially unhealthy.

a rigid concept

Highlights inflexibility and lack of adaptability in the idea.

a steadfast conviction

Emphasizes unwavering belief and commitment to the idea.

a preconceived judgment

Focuses on a judgment formed in advance, before having full knowledge.

a definite view

Emphasizes clarity and certainty in the idea.

a settled conclusion

Suggests the idea has been reached after consideration and is unlikely to change.

FAQs

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

You can use "a fixed idea" to describe someone's unwavering belief or concept about something. For example, "Despite the evidence, he held onto his fixed idea about the company's success."

What are some alternatives to "a fixed idea"?

Some alternatives to "a fixed idea" include "a preconceived notion", "a firm belief", or "a set opinion", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "fixed idea" or "preconceived idea"?

"Fixed idea" emphasizes the rigidity and resistance to change, while "preconceived idea" suggests the idea was formed in advance, possibly without full information. The best choice depends on the context.

What's the difference between "a fixed idea" and "an obsession"?

While both suggest a strong focus on a particular thought, "a fixed idea" implies a strong belief that is resistant to change, whereas "an obsession" suggests a compulsive preoccupation that may be irrational or unhealthy.