absurd notions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "absurd notions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe ideas or beliefs that are unreasonable or illogical. Example: "The proposal was filled with absurd notions that lacked any basis in reality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

But beyond that, the attack on Sanchez seems based on some absurd notions about what he's done and can't do.

The New Yorker

Yet it is perhaps in the nature of the true free thinker to be as receptive to absurd notions as to limpid common sense.

The Guardian - Books

SNP sympathisers have gathered round this undefined idea, while party intellectuals speculate airily about absurd notions like "independence with the UK".

The Guardian - Opinion

The absurd notions Bootsie hurls at Liam to persuade him to serve as a character witness at her son's coming trial land with the galvanizing energy of a slap.

The New York Times - Books

The Qur'an and the Hadiths don't support these absurd notions.

Huffington Post

Ruganzu Howard, a 37-year-old ex-cop from Seattle, explained it in even simpler terms: "Many people have opinions on guns and absurd notions of 'common sense' gun laws.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

In a sense, this is an absurd notion.

The Guardian - Books

This absurd notion rests on weak reeds in Europe and Arabs deeply hesitant to act.

The Washington Post

His office promulgated the absurd notion that security would cost $1 billion.

The New York Times

The UN still clings to an absurd notion Somaliland should rejoin its wayward cousin, Somalia.

The Guardian - Opinion

We take medicines that rely on the absurd notion that illnesses are caused by tiny invisible creatures called germs.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "absurd notions", ensure that the context clearly indicates why the notions are considered absurd, providing specific examples or explanations to support your assessment.

Common error

Avoid using "absurd notions" as a standalone critique. Always provide context and reasoning to explain why the ideas are considered absurd, otherwise your argument may lack credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "absurd notions" functions as a noun phrase with an adjectival modifier. The adjective 'absurd' qualifies the noun 'notions', indicating that the ideas are unreasonable or illogical. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Opinion

15%

Books

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "absurd notions" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes unreasonable or illogical ideas. As Ludwig AI validates, the phrase is suitable for a variety of contexts. While the phrase is found most commonly in News & Media, its usage is not strictly limited to informal settings. To use it effectively, provide clear context and reasoning to support why the ideas being described are considered absurd. Alternatives such as "ludicrous ideas" or "preposterous beliefs" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ludicrous ideas

Replaces "absurd notions" with a more informal term, focusing on the ridiculous aspect.

preposterous beliefs

Substitutes "notions" with "beliefs", emphasizing the conviction behind the unreasonable ideas.

ridiculous concepts

Similar to "ludicrous ideas" but uses a slightly more formal term.

outlandish concepts

Replaces "absurd" with "outlandish", highlighting the bizarre or strange nature of the concepts.

irrational ideas

Focuses on the lack of reason in the ideas, using a more clinical term.

illogical beliefs

Similar to "irrational ideas", but more directly addresses the lack of logical consistency.

unfounded beliefs

Highlights the lack of justification or evidence for the beliefs.

foolish assumptions

Shifts the focus to the underlying assumptions that are flawed.

groundless ideas

Similar to "baseless theories", highlighting the absence of a solid basis.

baseless theories

Emphasizes the lack of foundation for the theories, indicating they are not supported by evidence.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "absurd notions" in a sentence?

To effectively use "absurd notions", provide clear context and explain why the ideas being described are illogical or unreasonable. For example, "The proposal was rejected because it was based on "absurd notions" about market demand".

What are some alternatives to "absurd notions"?

Alternatives to "absurd notions" include "ludicrous ideas", "preposterous beliefs", or "outlandish concepts". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "absurd notions" in formal writing?

While "absurd notions" can be used in formal writing, consider the specific audience and tone. More formal alternatives like "irrational ideas" or "unfounded beliefs" might be more suitable in certain contexts.

What distinguishes "absurd notions" from "unrealistic expectations"?

"Absurd notions" typically refer to ideas that are illogical or irrational, while "unrealistic expectations" describe goals or outcomes that are unlikely to be achieved. The former focuses on flawed reasoning, while the latter focuses on impracticality.