a straightforward idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a straightforward idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a concept or thought that is clear and uncomplicated. Example: "The proposal was based on a straightforward idea that everyone could easily understand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

The theory that companies should wholeheartedly embrace strange experimentations of people like McDonald turns on a straightforward idea: It's good for the bottom line.

The New York Times

Desensitization is a straightforward idea; it's the same principle, according to legend, that King Mithridates VI used to cultivate immunity to poison (an occupational hazard of royalty in the ancient world).

The New York Times - Magazine

Wingsplay has a straightforward idea: Pay them.

TechCrunch

As stated before, extracting the synchronization errors from direct-path signal is a straightforward idea for the bistatic SAR synchronization.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

There is a straightforward idea of defining different kernels on different feature spaces and combing them through multi-kernel algorithms.

Brain Informatics

Overall, Hackers Of is a straightforward idea that comes from a positive place, and it's being executed quite well.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Founder and CEO Richard Zelson also tells me the company is working on features that go beyond music-sharing, and that it's about to raise a Series A. MyStream comes from a pretty straightforward idea — wouldn't it be cool if you could hear whatever music your friend is listening to?

TechCrunch

Intellectual property is a better candidate; think of the entrepreneurs behind Instagram, capable of realising a vast fortune on the back of a fairly straightforward idea.

The Economist

It's a pretty straightforward idea, and you don't necessarily need to sign a pledge to do it.

TechCrunch

Also, an appreciation for how much he did have this pretty brilliant insight on what was a simple, straightforward idea.

TechCrunch

It's a pretty straightforward idea, sure.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a project or plan, use "a straightforward idea" to emphasize its simplicity and ease of implementation.

Common error

Avoid using overly technical language when presenting "a straightforward idea". Keep the explanation simple and accessible to a broad audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a straightforward idea" functions as a noun phrase, where "straightforward" is an adjective modifying the noun "idea". This phrase typically introduces a concept that is easily understood and uncomplicated. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a straightforward idea" is a versatile phrase used to describe concepts that are simple and easy to understand. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is correct and suitable for various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While phrases like "a simple concept" or "an uncomplicated notion" can be used as alternatives, "a straightforward idea" often implies a direct and uncomplicated approach. When using this phrase, it's best to maintain clarity in your explanation and avoid unnecessary complexity. The high frequency and diverse sourcing of this phrase, as seen in Ludwig's examples, make it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a simple concept

Focuses on the simplicity of the idea.

an uncomplicated notion

Highlights the lack of complexity.

a clear-cut concept

Emphasizes the clarity and lack of ambiguity.

an easily understood concept

Focuses on how easy it is to grasp the idea.

a basic principle

Refers to a foundational idea or rule.

a fundamental concept

Highlights the essential nature of the idea.

a plain idea

Emphasizes the simplicity and lack of embellishment.

an elementary idea

Suggests the idea is at a basic level.

a digestible concept

Highlights the ease with which the idea can be processed and understood.

an accessible idea

Focuses on the idea's accessibility and ease of understanding for a wide audience.

FAQs

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

You can use "a straightforward idea" to describe concepts that are simple and easy to understand. For instance, "The solution is based on "a straightforward idea": increase efficiency by automating repetitive tasks."

What are some alternatives to "a straightforward idea"?

Alternatives include "a simple concept", "an uncomplicated notion", or "a clear-cut concept". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a simple idea" or "a straightforward idea"?

Both "a simple idea" and "a straightforward idea" are correct, but "straightforward" often implies directness and ease of understanding, while "simple" emphasizes a lack of complexity. Choose the term that best fits the context. For instance, "a straightforward idea" is more aligned to a direct approach while a simple one is more focused on basic things.

Can "a straightforward idea" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "a straightforward idea" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe a concept that is easy to understand. Consider alternatives if you want to adjust formality. For example an "a fundamental concept" sounds more formal.