a strange idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strange idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it any time you want to describe an idea or thought that is unusual or unexpected. For example, "I had a strange idea that maybe we could all move to Canada."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

What a strange idea!

The New York Times

And I'm thinking, 'What a strange idea.

The Guardian

It's a strange idea: to resist in order to exist.

The New Yorker

He had a strange idea that fiction wasn't really fiction.

The Guardian - Books

It was a strange idea, but, then, consciousness was strange.

The New Yorker

What a Strange Idea: To be a Writer in the Arab World!

Columbia University

And for a strange idea, try App For Cats ($1 on iOS).

The New York Times

That he was having sex with anybody seemed like a strange idea".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Coates didn't think being his son's primary caregiver was a particularly strange idea, seeing as how his own father, a former Black Panther and Vietnam War veteran, had done the same for a spell.

Forbes

"Then I had a very strange idea," he said.

The New Yorker

Ros Altmann, the director-general of Saga, said: "This is a very strange idea indeed.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strange idea", consider the audience and context. In formal settings, you may want to provide more context or justification for why the idea is considered strange. In informal settings, it can be used more freely to express surprise or skepticism.

Common error

Avoid simply labeling an idea as "a strange idea" without explaining why. Provide specific reasons or examples to illustrate the unusual aspects of the idea. This adds clarity and prevents misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strange idea" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "strange" modifies the noun "idea". It introduces a concept or thought that deviates from the norm or expectation. According to Ludwig, this phrase is widely used in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strange idea" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a concept that is unusual or unexpected. As Ludwig highlights, it appears frequently in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Academia. When employing this phrase, provide sufficient context to clarify the nature of the idea's strangeness. Alternatives such as "an unusual concept" or "a peculiar notion" can offer subtle variations in meaning. Remember to avoid overuse without explanation to maintain clarity and prevent misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unusual concept

Emphasizes the uncommon nature of the idea.

a peculiar notion

Highlights the odd or eccentric quality of the idea.

an odd thought

Focuses on the bizarre or unconventional nature of the thought.

an unconventional concept

Stresses the departure from accepted norms.

a bizarre proposition

Highlights the outlandish or eccentric nature of the suggestion.

a curious thought

Emphasizes the intriguing and slightly odd aspect of the idea.

a weird concept

Uses a more informal term to describe the oddness.

an outlandish idea

Stresses the bizarre and unconventional aspect.

a far-fetched idea

Highlights the implausible or unrealistic nature of the idea.

a novel concept

Focuses on the fresh and original nature of the idea, which can also imply strangeness in its newness.

FAQs

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

You can use "a strange idea" to introduce a concept that is unusual, unexpected, or difficult to understand. For example, "He had "a strange idea" about building a house out of recycled materials."

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

Alternatives include "an unusual concept", "a peculiar notion", or "an odd thought", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to describe something as "a strange idea"?

Not necessarily. While it can imply skepticism or disbelief, it can also indicate curiosity or intrigue. The tone depends on the context and how you elaborate on the idea.

When is it appropriate to use "a strange idea" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "a strange idea" when you want to highlight the unconventional or unexpected nature of a concept. However, be sure to provide enough context so that your reader understands why you find it strange and avoids confusion.