a preconceived notion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a preconceived notion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an idea or belief that someone has formed in advance, often without sufficient evidence or consideration of other perspectives. Example: "Many people have a preconceived notion that success is solely determined by wealth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

I probably had a preconceived notion, and it probably wasn't right".

The New York Times - Sports

He admitted he had a preconceived notion that "church women were goody-two-shoes".

The New York Times

"I think we would fail miserably if it was a preconceived notion or intellectual construct.

The Guardian - Music

"People think they're not going to like it, but that's just a preconceived notion".

The New York Times - Food

The pop art icon said he tries to stand at his easel without a preconceived notion.

The New York Times

"I had a preconceived notion of a chain-link fence, blacktop and swing sets," he said.

The New York Times

For starters, "Don't start with a preconceived notion that 'I'm disadvantaged, just because I have more experience,'" she said.

The New York Times

But, he added, "we don't have a preconceived notion of when, how or with who" we will achieve that goal.

The New York Times

I lived in such a melting pot that I never grew up with a preconceived notion of 'people'people

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"They come in with a preconceived notion that art is something only people with a lot of money can make — an unattainable goal".

The New York Times - Arts

"I admit it, I had a preconceived notion of him being this big lacrosse player for whom schoolwork was definitely not a top priority," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Challenge your own "a preconceived notion" by seeking diverse perspectives and evidence before forming strong conclusions. This promotes fair judgment and avoids unintentional biases.

Common error

Avoid making critical decisions solely based on "a preconceived notion". Always validate initial impressions with thorough investigation and objective data to ensure informed and effective choices.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a preconceived notion" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes an idea, belief, or understanding formed in advance, often without sufficient evidence. Ludwig confirms its correct and frequent usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a preconceived notion" is a frequently used noun phrase that denotes an idea or belief formed prematurely, often without adequate evidence. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It is employed across diverse registers, with a strong presence in news, media, and scientific contexts. To foster objectivity, one should challenge their own "a preconceived notion" and validate initial impressions with thorough investigation. Recognizing and mitigating the impact of "a preconceived notion" is essential for unbiased judgment and informed decision-making. The phrase has several alternatives like ""a prior assumption"" or ""a preformed opinion"".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prior assumption

Emphasizes the act of assuming something beforehand.

a prior belief

Highlights the pre-existing conviction one holds.

a preliminary idea

Focuses on the initial stage of forming an idea.

a preformed opinion

Stresses the opinion has been shaped in advance.

a bias

Implies an inclination or prejudice for or against something.

a predisposition

Suggests a tendency to think a certain way.

a fixed idea

Indicates a rigid and unchangeable belief.

a set idea

Similar to 'fixed idea' but less intense.

an assumption

A belief accepted as true without proof.

a presumption

An idea taken for granted.

FAQs

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

You can use "a preconceived notion" to describe an idea or belief formed before having full knowledge or experience. For example: "Many people enter the field of medicine with "a preconceived notion" of what it will be like."

What are some synonyms for "a preconceived notion"?

Alternatives to "a preconceived notion" include "a prior assumption", "a preformed opinion", or simply "an assumption", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to approach a situation without "a preconceived notion"?

In many cases, yes. Approaching a situation without "a preconceived notion" allows for more objective observation and understanding. However, prior knowledge can sometimes be helpful as a starting point.

What's the difference between "a preconceived notion" and "a hypothesis"?

"A preconceived notion" is often an assumption made without sufficient evidence, while "a hypothesis" is a testable explanation based on existing evidence, used as a starting point for investigation.