a fixed notion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fixed notion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an idea or belief that is firmly established and not easily changed. Example: "Many people hold a fixed notion that success is solely determined by wealth and status."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

He also rejects a fixed notion of place.

The New York Times - Books

In politics, the side with a fixed notion of ends and an unscrupulous approach to means always has the advantage.

The New Yorker

In 1638, the year "Lycidas" was published, Milton — still essentially unknown but with a fixed notion of future greatness — sailed for Europe.

The New Yorker

But the real and true, of course, is not a fixed notion, and as the first Dogme directors have continued their activities, most have drawn away from the original restrictions.

The New York Times - Arts

This is not to say that there is no such thing as a fixed notion of species prior to Darwin.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

The perception of knowledge as a performative process constantly reshaping itself, radically differs from a fixed notion based on an objective reality that only needs to be discovered.

European Journal of Futures Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The idea that we can't afford medical care or higher education, he argues, is just an "illusion" reflecting some fixed notion of what percent of our income should be devoted to such activities.

The Washington Post

But the agreements were founded in a notion of exchange rather than in some fixed notion of consensus on a single policy or choice.

Duke University

Another fixed notion was that real computer engineers worked on more glamorous problems.

Harvard Business Review

Finally, far from being some sort of static or fixed notion, Wilkins shows that the concept of species has (again, as far back as Aristotle) always involved what he calls a generative conception of species.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

The built environment and previously fixed notions such as architecture, urban design, streets and landscape have started to meld together.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a fixed notion", ensure the context clearly indicates whether this notion is being challenged or accepted. Provide supporting details or contrasting viewpoints to add depth to your writing.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on the phrase "a fixed notion" to dismiss opposing arguments. Instead, thoroughly analyze and deconstruct the specific flaws within the argument, providing detailed evidence and reasoning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fixed notion" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object within a sentence. It refers to an idea or belief that is firmly established and resistant to change. Ludwig AI shows many examples in news, science and academic writing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a fixed notion" is a noun phrase denoting a firmly established belief or idea. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is grammatically correct and commonly found across diverse sources, particularly in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, writers should aim for clarity and precision, considering whether the notion is being supported or challenged, and providing context to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "a preconceived idea" or "an established belief" can offer subtle shifts in meaning. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively employ "a fixed notion" to enhance their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preconceived idea

Emphasizes an idea formed in advance, often without sufficient evidence.

an established belief

Highlights the long-standing nature and acceptance of the belief.

a settled opinion

Focuses on the firmness and resistance to change of the opinion.

a rigid concept

Stresses the inflexibility and unyielding nature of the concept.

an ingrained idea

Implies the idea is deeply rooted and difficult to remove.

a conventional wisdom

Highlights the widely accepted and traditional nature of the belief.

a traditional view

Emphasizes the long-standing and customary aspect of the perspective.

a set idea

Focuses on the immutability and predetermination of the thought.

a firm conviction

Stresses the strength and certainty of the belief.

an unwavering belief

Highlights the steadfastness and lack of doubt in the belief.

FAQs

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

You can use "a fixed notion" to describe a belief or idea that is firmly established and not easily changed. For example: "Many people hold "a fixed notion" that success is solely determined by wealth."

What can I say instead of "a fixed notion"?

You can use alternatives like "a preconceived idea", "an established belief", or "a settled opinion" depending on the context.

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

Both "fixed idea" and "fixed notion" are acceptable, but "fixed notion" might be preferred in more formal writing. The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey and the overall tone of your writing.

What is the difference between "a fixed notion" and "an assumption"?

"A fixed notion" implies a more deeply held and resistant belief, while "an assumption" is a belief taken for granted without proof. Therefore, a "a fixed notion" is more difficult to change compared to an assumption.