a wild idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a wild idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an unconventional or imaginative thought or suggestion that may seem surprising or outlandish. Example: "She proposed a wild idea for the project that involved using virtual reality to enhance the user experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

What a wild idea.

Harvard Business Review

Here's a wild idea.

The Guardian

Or… here's a wild idea: we could just cry.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You're laughing". IDEO prescribes thinking of a wild idea, and then a wilder idea.

Stanford University

Shannon laughed, as if conceding that nursing school was a wild idea.

The New York Times

That may seem a wild idea, but Traore insists there are comparisons to be made.

The Guardian - Music

If you have a wild idea or a completely new paradigm, forget about it.

The New York Times

This may sound a wild idea but it is not entirely a fool's errand.

The Economist

And that's not such a wild idea, but a lot of people won't combine those two styles.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

I've met my share of solitary fanatics, but never have I seen an entire household united by such belief in what is--by most accounts--a wild idea.

Los Angeles Times

A wilder idea comes from Saratoga, California-based Gyration Inc., which develops gyroscopes sensors that detect rotational motion used in pointing devices for presentation equipment.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a wild idea" to signal that you're about to present a highly creative or unusual concept, potentially outside the bounds of conventional thinking.

Common error

Don't assume your audience will automatically embrace "a wild idea". Clearly articulate the potential benefits and address potential drawbacks to build credibility and encourage adoption.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a wild idea" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, it correctly and understandably introduces an unconventional concept. It is used to present something novel or imaginative that may deviate from conventional thinking.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a wild idea" is a commonly used and generally appropriate phrase for introducing an unconventional or imaginative thought. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely understood. While prevalent in news, media, and academic contexts, its usage should be carefully considered in formal writing, where more precise language might be preferred. Remember to prepare your audience for the unconventional nature of the idea and clearly articulate its potential benefits to encourage its acceptance. Alternatives such as "an outlandish concept" or "an innovative thought" can be considered based on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an outlandish concept

Emphasizes the strangeness and improbability of the idea.

an unconventional notion

Highlights the departure from established norms.

a far-fetched scheme

Suggests the idea is unlikely to succeed or be realized.

an implausible suggestion

Focuses on the lack of believability.

a crazy plan

Highlights the recklessness of the idea.

an innovative thought

Highlights the originality and novelty of the idea.

an imaginative proposal

Highlights the creativity and inventiveness of the idea.

a whimsical concept

Highlights the playfulness and fanciful nature of the idea.

a groundbreaking vision

Focuses on the potential for significant impact and change.

a radical proposition

Emphasizes the revolutionary nature of the idea.

FAQs

How can I introduce "a wild idea" in a presentation?

You can start by acknowledging the unconventional nature of the idea, saying something like, "I have "an unconventional notion" I'd like to share," or, "This might sound like "a far-fetched scheme", but hear me out."

What's a more formal way to describe "a wild idea"?

In a formal context, consider using phrases like "an innovative thought", "a groundbreaking vision", or "a radical proposition" to maintain a professional tone.

Is it appropriate to use "a wild idea" in academic writing?

While not strictly inappropriate, "a wild idea" may be too informal for academic writing. Opt for more precise and scholarly alternatives like "a speculative hypothesis" or "a novel concept".

How can I temper expectations when presenting "a wild idea"?

Frame it as a starting point for discussion or exploration, rather than a fully formed solution. Acknowledge potential challenges and invite collaboration to refine the "implausible suggestion".