a profound idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a profound idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing concepts or thoughts that are deep, significant, or impactful. Example: "The philosopher presented a profound idea that challenged our understanding of morality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

And this discovery led to a profound idea.

The Guardian

"It's not such a profound idea to fill in the corridors," Mr. Landon said.

The New York Times

It wasn't a profound idea, maybe, but it was worth exploring.

The New York Times

This evening we have come here to celebrate a great leader who championed a profound idea.

The Guardian

The work presents a process of continuous organic construction, and is the very opposite of von Trier's bits and pieces of anguished nothing looking for a profound idea to cling to.

The New Yorker

It is a profound idea, encompassing far more than how we feel as individuals: it has a history, it will be different in the future, it must live in our government, which now includes corporate power.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The reasons for that range from the obvious inconvenience of rooming with a stranger to a more profound idea that Professor DePaulo refers to as "single at heart".

The New York Times - Travel

It is a simple, profound idea and yet Central Beheer remains the exception rather than the rule.

The Guardian - Arts

It sounds banal – and of course it's an over-simplification – but on a deep and almost zen level, it's an incredibly profound idea.

The Guardian - Music

"Israel," he said to prolonged applause, "is rooted not just in history and tradition, but also in a simple and profound idea: the idea that people deserve to be free in a land of their own".

The New York Times

Executive producer Richard Linklater (Boyhood) starts with a simple yet profound idea for Livin' On Chico Time: send Louis Theroux to live with the 2005 X Factor finalist Chico for 12 years, and film everything.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a profound idea", ensure it's followed by an explanation or example to illustrate its depth and significance to the reader.

Common error

Avoid labeling an idea as "a profound idea" without providing sufficient context or justification. This can diminish its impact and make your writing sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a profound idea" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a concept that is characterized by its depth, significance, and potential for impact, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a profound idea" is a noun phrase used to introduce a concept of considerable depth and significance. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While not overly common, it finds its place across news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, reflecting its suitability for both thoughtful analysis and impactful statements. When employing this phrase, ensure it's backed by sufficient context to truly convey the idea's profundity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a deep insight

Emphasizes the depth and understanding gained.

a significant concept

Highlights the importance and impact of the concept.

a weighty notion

Suggests a serious and considerable idea.

a groundbreaking thought

Implies the idea is innovative and revolutionary.

a substantial concept

Focuses on the solid and meaningful nature of the idea.

a remarkable insight

Highlights how uncommon and worthy of attention the insight is.

a fundamental principle

Refers to an idea serving as the base for a system of belief or behaviour.

an essential concept

Expresses the necessity of the concept within a larger framework.

a transformative idea

Points to an idea capable of causing significant change.

a philosophical concept

Indicates an idea related to the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.

FAQs

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

You can use "a profound idea" to introduce a concept that has significant depth or impact. For instance, "The scientist introduced "a profound idea" that could revolutionize our understanding of the universe."

What are some alternatives to saying "a profound idea"?

Alternatives include "a deep insight", "a significant concept", or "a groundbreaking thought", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "profound idea" or "deep idea"?

"Profound idea" generally suggests a greater level of significance and impact compared to "deep idea". While both are acceptable, "profound" often implies a more transformative or revelatory concept.

What makes an idea "profound"?

An idea is considered "profound" when it reveals a deep understanding of a complex issue, challenges existing assumptions, or offers a new perspective that has significant implications.