a set idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a set idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a fixed or established concept or belief that is not easily changed. Example: "The team had a set idea about how the project should be executed, which made it difficult to consider alternative approaches."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

I didn't have a set idea that I was going to become an actor.

Independent

"He was two inches shorter than me, and I had a set idea of who I wanted to date.

The New York Times - Style

Wherever we are, nobody is going to have a set idea of what to do – it's organised, but it's also about the collaborations we'll create on stage.

The Guardian - Music

Keep an Open Mind Allow yourself to change your mind, even if you already have a set idea of where you plan to apply next fall.

The New York Times

While a group of followers on a social network like Twitter feels like a set idea, here the idea is that the network can change shape (like a jellyfish) depending on the circumstances.

TechCrunch

Before each project I would get a copy of the article to be illustrated, so there was a set idea I had to work with, as opposed to the free and open process of creating art for World.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

But readers have a very set idea of Logan, too, even if every reader has a different one.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In 2008 Mr. Nilekani published "Imagining India," a wonkish book that elucidated a set of ideas he thought could transform India.

The New York Times

Islam is a religion -- a set of ideas and beliefs -- and debating ideas and beliefs is the lifeblood of freedom of speech.

Huffington Post

The IPLS tasks we identified as level 3 brought together a set of ideas from physics and a set of ideas from biology and asked students to make sense of this interaction.

CBE Life Sciences Education

Be open-minded and try to look at the piece of literature not as a set of ideas, but a set of open-ended ideas.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a set idea", consider whether the context requires emphasizing the rigidity or predetermination of the idea. If flexibility is desired, rephrase to suggest openness to new information or approaches.

Common error

Avoid using "a set idea" when describing something that is still evolving or subject to change. Using it prematurely can imply a closed-mindedness that may not be accurate or desirable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a set idea" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes a specific concept or plan that is predetermined and often resistant to change. As indicated by Ludwig, it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Wiki

21%

Science

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a set idea" is a grammatically correct and usable expression denoting a fixed or predetermined concept. As shown by Ludwig, its usage spans multiple domains, with a slight prevalence in news and media. While not overly common, the phrase serves to highlight a pre-existing belief or plan, often implying a degree of inflexibility. When writing, carefully consider whether emphasizing this rigidity is the intended message, or if alternatives like "a preconceived notion" or "an established opinion" might be more appropriate. It is important to acknowledge that Ludwig confirms the phrase is acceptable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preconceived notion

Emphasizes the idea being formed in advance, potentially before having all the information.

a fixed belief

Highlights the firmness and resistance to change of the idea.

a determined plan

Suggests a concrete and decided course of action, rather than a general concept.

an established opinion

Focuses on the idea being widely accepted or held for a long time.

a firm conviction

Implies a strong and deeply held belief.

a rigid concept

Highlights the inflexibility and lack of adaptability of the idea.

a preconceived plan

Highlights the planning stage.

a settled view

Implies that the idea has been considered and is now unlikely to change.

a definite scheme

Refers to a structured and well-defined plan of action.

a pre-established guideline

Emphasizes that the idea serves as a rule or principle set in advance.

FAQs

What does "a set idea" mean?

The phrase "a set idea" refers to a firmly established belief, plan, or concept that is not easily changed. It implies a degree of rigidity and predetermination.

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

You might say, "The company had "a set idea" about marketing that proved difficult to adapt to new trends".

What are some alternatives to "a set idea"?

You can use alternatives like "a preconceived notion", "a fixed belief", or "an established opinion" depending on the context.

Is "a set idea" the same as "an idea"?

No, "an idea" is a general concept, while "a set idea" is a specific idea that is firmly established. The phrase "a set idea" indicates that an individual has a firm conviction that is unlikely to be persuaded otherwise.