a plausible idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a plausible idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a concept or suggestion that seems reasonable or believable within a given context. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, I believe that proposing a new marketing strategy is a plausible idea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

For a while, the Tigers-as-Yankee-slayers became a plausible idea.

The New York Times

It is a plausible idea, worth mulling over at least in relation to some of the better works on display.

The New York Times

In hockey, you cannot hope to preserve a scoreless tie for forty-five minutesoccersoccer it's a plausible idea.

The New Yorker

Get it really wrong, like in the repellent Couples Retreat, and the results are downright creepy: only in Los Angeles could guilt-tripping your friends into a new-age therapy marriage-counselling camp seem like a plausible idea for two hours of unbridled escapism.

The Guardian - Film

However, this is not a plausible idea.

SEP

Kearns agrees: "The first thing any scientist needs is a plausible idea or project".

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

But April's plunge was scary, and instead of taking a flier on just about any plausible idea out there venture capital firms are re-emphasizing grunt work -- shepherding companies through the difficult early stages, refining business models, building value.

The New York Times

Of course, it is a more plausible idea if the euro zone survives in one piece.

The New York Times

A more plausible idea, backed by Mr Legrain, is to restore greater freedom to national governments but reinstate the principle that they will not be rescued by the centre if they get into trouble.The biggest worry may stem from the perception that the crisis is over.

The Economist

"It's a very plausible idea," says David Stevenson of the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena.

Science Magazine

Such colonization over ice "seems a very plausible idea," says Graham Slater of the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C., who was not involved in the new work.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "a plausible idea", always support it with evidence or logical reasoning to enhance its credibility and persuasiveness.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a plausible idea" as a certainty. Instead, acknowledge potential limitations or alternative perspectives to maintain objectivity and strengthen your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a plausible idea" functions as a noun phrase, where "plausible" modifies the noun "idea". It typically serves to introduce a suggestion, concept, or theory that appears reasonable and worthy of consideration. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

56%

Science & Research

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a plausible idea" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to introduce a concept or suggestion that seems reasonable and believable. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. Its neutral to professional register makes it appropriate for various contexts, particularly news, science, and business discussions. Supporting such ideas with evidence strengthens their persuasiveness, while acknowledging potential limitations maintains objectivity. Alternatives like "a credible concept" or "a reasonable suggestion" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a credible concept

Emphasizes the believability and trustworthiness of the idea.

a reasonable suggestion

Highlights the logical and justifiable nature of the idea.

a tenable theory

Implies that the idea can be defended or maintained against objections.

a viable option

Focuses on the practicality and feasibility of implementing the idea.

a sound proposition

Suggests that the idea is well-reasoned and likely to be successful.

a realistic possibility

Emphasizes that the idea is achievable and aligned with reality.

a compelling argument

Highlights the persuasiveness and convincing nature of the idea.

a well-founded belief

Suggests that the idea is supported by evidence and logical reasoning.

a defensible hypothesis

Indicates that the idea can be supported and justified through research or evidence.

a supportable claim

Focuses on the ability to provide evidence or reasons to back up the idea.

FAQs

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

You can use "a plausible idea" when introducing a concept or suggestion that seems reasonable or believable within a given context. For example, "After reviewing the data, the new marketing strategy seemed like "a plausible idea"."

What are some alternatives to "a plausible idea"?

You can use alternatives such as "a credible concept", "a reasonable suggestion", or "a viable option" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "plausible idea" or "good idea"?

"Plausible idea" suggests that the idea is believable and likely to succeed, while "good idea" simply implies that the idea is positive or beneficial. "Plausible idea" is more specific and conveys a sense of feasibility.

What makes an idea "plausible"?

An idea is considered "plausible" when it appears to be reasonable, believable, and supported by some evidence or logical reasoning. It doesn't necessarily mean the idea is correct, but that it's worth considering.