a legitimate idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a legitimate idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing concepts or proposals that are valid, reasonable, or justifiable in a particular context. Example: "After careful consideration, we concluded that the proposal presented was indeed a legitimate idea worth pursuing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

They are rather the products of everything from joshing to outright lying when lying seems the only logical way to advance a legitimate idea.

The New York Times - Books

So…is this a legitimate idea or just the latest example of an entity trying to make a quick buck by slapping together an ICO?

TechCrunch

A main theme of standing up to taking on the institutionalization of corporate greed is a legitimate idea.

Huffington Post

After critics mocked Republican presidential candidate and Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker for saying a wall between the U.S. and Canada was a "legitimate" idea, his campaign said Monday that he is not pushing for such a policy.

Huffington Post

He's learned that mentorship is a two-way street: I... meet with any entrepreneur who has a legitimate idea, or is in the process of starting something, for two reasons.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"This is a perfectly legitimate idea.

The New York Times

Introducing a conceptually legitimate idea of homology of activity-function is not about keeping the ideas of developmental biology tidy.

SEP

If we let it be expressed, without allowing ourselves to be gamed by the zealots trying to provoke us, then the extremism loses its power, while any legitimate ideas buried in the dung are able to emerge without the stench.

Huffington Post

The point is not to argue from authority — it is, instead, to knock down the other side's attempt to argue from authority, on the grounds that "nobody" believes that this is a good or even legitimate idea.

The New York Times

As one member of Mr. Liu's task force, Julia Vitullo-Martin, put it, a "new weird principle" had been grafted onto the "perfectly legitimate" idea that a developer should try to mitigate the effects of gentrification.

The New York Times

This is a legitimate dramatic idea and a provocative one.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "a legitimate idea", clearly articulate its merits and supporting evidence to enhance its credibility and acceptance.

Common error

Avoid using intensifiers like "very" or "extremely" before "legitimate idea", as this can undermine its perceived validity by suggesting a need to overemphasize its legitimacy. Instead, focus on presenting the idea's inherent strengths.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a legitimate idea" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a concept that is considered valid, acceptable, or justifiable. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a legitimate idea" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a concept that is considered valid, reasonable, or justifiable. Ludwig AI identifies it as appropriate for use in written English. It is frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the idea's merits are clearly articulated to enhance its credibility. Alternatives such as "a valid concept" or "a reasonable proposal" can be used to convey similar meanings. Avoid overstating the legitimacy with intensifiers; instead, focus on the inherent strengths of the idea.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valid concept

Emphasizes the logical soundness and factual basis of the idea.

a reasonable proposal

Highlights the practicality and acceptability of the suggestion.

a justifiable notion

Focuses on the defensible and warranted nature of the idea.

a sound concept

Implies the idea is well-founded and likely to succeed.

a credible suggestion

Highlights the trustworthiness and believability of the idea.

a tenable position

Suggests the idea is defensible and can be maintained against opposition.

a plausible theory

Focuses on the apparent reasonableness and likelihood of the idea being true.

a defensible argument

Highlights that the idea can be justified with argumentation.

an acceptable plan

Focuses on the fact that the idea is considered acceptable.

a well-founded belief

Implies that the idea is well sustained by external elements.

FAQs

How can I effectively present "a legitimate idea"?

To effectively present "a legitimate idea", provide clear evidence, logical reasoning, and address potential counterarguments. Highlighting the benefits and addressing concerns can increase its acceptance.

What are some alternatives to using "a legitimate idea"?

You can use alternatives such as "a valid concept", "a reasonable proposal", or "a justifiable notion" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "a very legitimate idea"?

Using "very" before "legitimate idea" can sometimes sound redundant, as legitimacy already implies validity and acceptability. Consider focusing on the idea's specific strengths instead of overemphasizing its legitimacy.

What makes an idea "legitimate"?

An idea is considered "legitimate" when it is based on sound reasoning, evidence, and accepted principles. It should be defensible, justifiable, and align with relevant standards or criteria.