a larger idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a larger idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing concepts or themes that encompass broader or more significant thoughts or notions. Example: "In this essay, I will explore how individual experiences contribute to a larger idea of community and belonging."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

But it's a larger idea than just my work.

The Guardian - Music

They no longer have a larger idea of what being Jewish is for.

The Guardian - Books

"So we use TV now as a catalyst to extend a larger idea into different areas".

The New York Times

But there is a larger idea animating his work: that human culture is inextricably part of nature.

The New York Times - Arts

The novel succeeds because McEwan lets Beard's character shape the story rather than using him to illustrate a larger idea.

The New Yorker

This awkward logic is part of a larger idea that Haley articulates frequently: that discord is potentially as destructive as injustice.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

A large idea in more ways than one, it accommodates many followers.

The Economist

This balding, fiercely mustached writer and coffeehouse habitué reveals angst in his tense facial expression and hands held apart as if struggling to outline a large idea.

The New York Times - Arts

Better to start from something very simple that you think is interesting (an incident, a person) and expand upon it, rather than starting from a large idea that you then have to fit into an short essay.

The New York Times

"InfoArmy is pursuing a large idea, with a tremendous opportunity to disrupt the market for competitive intelligence," said Jeff Crowe, general partner at Norwest Venture Partners, in a statement.

TechCrunch

There's also a much larger idea.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a larger idea", ensure that you provide sufficient context and explanation so that your audience understands the connection between the specific details and the broader concept.

Common error

Avoid claiming that something illustrates "a larger idea" if the connection is tenuous or unsupported by evidence. Ensure the link is logical and well-reasoned.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a larger idea" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It introduces a concept that is broader or more encompassing than the immediate subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Arts

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a larger idea" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to introduce a concept of broader scope or greater significance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's versatile and suitable for various contexts. It appears frequently in news, scientific, and artistic domains, indicating its relevance across diverse fields. When using this phrase, ensure a clear connection between the details and the overarching concept. Alternatives like "a broader concept" or "a grander vision" can offer subtle shifts in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a broader concept

Emphasizes the scope of the idea being wider or more inclusive.

a grander vision

Highlights the ambitious and comprehensive nature of the idea.

a more expansive notion

Focuses on the extended or developed quality of the idea.

a bigger picture

Indicates a complete and wide-ranging perspective.

a comprehensive framework

Implies a structured and all-encompassing system of thought.

a more significant theme

Highlights the importance and relevance of the idea.

a wider perspective

Stresses the breadth of viewpoint considered.

a more general principle

Focuses on the broad applicability and foundational nature of the idea.

a macro concept

Highlights the idea is an entire concept

an overarching theme

Emphasizes the idea's role as a central and unifying element.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a larger idea" in a sentence?

Use "a larger idea" to introduce a concept that provides a broader context or overarching theme for the specific details you are discussing. For instance, "The individual stories of immigrants contribute to "a larger idea" of cultural integration".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "a larger idea"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a broader concept", "a grander vision", or "a more expansive notion" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a larger idea"?

Yes, the phrase "a larger idea" is grammatically correct. The adjective "larger" correctly modifies the noun "idea", indicating an idea of greater scope or significance.

How does "a bigger picture" differ from "a larger idea"?

"A bigger picture" often refers to a comprehensive understanding of a situation by seeing all its parts, while "a larger idea" usually relates to a more abstract or encompassing concept that connects specific elements. They are often interchangeable, but "a larger idea" is more about abstraction and "a bigger picture" is more about concrete comprehension.