a sensible notion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sensible notion" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an idea or concept that is reasonable or logical. Example: "After considering the various options, I believe that adopting a flexible work schedule is a sensible notion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It's a sensible notion, but results in Britain have so far disappointed.

The Economist

One can raise a number of questions about whether the modern textbook procedure does really capture a sensible notion of logical consequence.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

As a result, the idea of sustainability -- which should be a perfectly sensible notion in a world of finite resources -- is often viewed with suspicion or skepticism.

Huffington Post

Drawing on case studies from the engineering failure-analysis literature, we propose to combine the two approaches to form a new sensible notion of root cause as a U-turn.

Engineering Failure Analysis

Part of creating a more sensible notion may be according home ownership a new conceptual category as more than a piggy bank for young American families -- that private property is an assertion of one's individual rights.

Huffington Post

On a broad level, it's based on a very simple, sensible notion of Greenblatt's, one that would probably make Buffett smile: "Buying good companies at bargain prices makes sense".

Forbes

The world's largest banks have been accused of many things in recent years, including taking excessive risk in the run-up to 2008, doing great damage to the American economy by blowing themselves up and then working hard to resist any sensible notions of financial reform.

The New York Times

The implausible chronicle of a rake who adopts the saintly guise of an empathetic Mr. Right to work his wiles, it promotes the sensible notion that a little discretion and secrecy are necessary to maintain domestic peace.

The New York Times

But that is not the insight contained in the sensible notion of the "common good".

Independent

(It suggested that removing the prostate might benefit men under 65, which is consistent with the sensible notion that younger men are better candidates for some aggressive treatments).

The New York Times

Black harmony music was first sung in church; but most of the black groups who were successful were owned by white businessmen who turned their singing towards comedy or novelty, on the prima facie sensible notion that any sound that smacked of Gospel music would be unfamiliar and so unattractive to the predominantly white national audience.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using stronger synonyms like “a sound concept” or “a logical proposition” if you want to emphasize the rationality of the idea even further.

Common error

While "a sensible notion" is a valid phrase, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less engaging. Vary your language by using alternative phrases like "a reasonable idea" or "a sound concept" to maintain reader interest.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sensible notion" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "sensible" modifies the noun "notion". It qualifies the noun, indicating that the notion is reasonable or logical. Ludwig provides examples that show how this phrase introduces ideas considered rational.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sensible notion" is a phrase used to describe an idea or concept deemed reasonable and logical. Ludwig AI confirms it’s grammatically correct and usable, though somewhat uncommon. It is found most often in news and media, and to a lesser degree in scientific and formal business contexts. While generally neutral in register, it leans slightly towards formality. To avoid repetition, consider using alternatives like "a reasonable idea" or "a sound concept". When using the phrase, make sure the idea you're presenting is well-considered and based on rational thought.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reasonable idea

Emphasizes the logical and justifiable aspect of the idea.

a sound concept

Highlights the solidity and well-founded nature of the concept.

a logical proposition

Focuses on the rationality and coherence of the suggestion.

a practical approach

Stresses the feasibility and applicability of the method.

a wise consideration

Indicates thoughtful and prudent evaluation.

a judicious plan

Implies careful and well-thought-out planning.

a prudent strategy

Suggests a cautious and strategic approach.

a rational viewpoint

Emphasizes the logical and reasoned perspective.

a pragmatic outlook

Highlights a realistic and practical perspective.

a well-reasoned argument

Focuses on the logical structure and support of the argument.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sensible notion" to introduce an idea or concept that is logical and well-reasoned. For example: "Adopting a flexible work schedule is "a sensible notion", given the current circumstances."

What are some alternatives to "a sensible notion"?

Alternatives to "a sensible notion" include "a reasonable idea", "a sound concept", or "a logical proposition". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "a sensible notion" formal or informal?

"A sensible notion" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more common in slightly more formal writing. It is suitable for expressing logical or reasonable ideas in a variety of settings.

What does "a sensible notion" mean?

"A sensible notion" refers to an idea or concept that is based on reason, logic, and good judgment. It implies that the idea is practical, well-considered, and likely to lead to a positive outcome.