an amusing idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an amusing idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a thought or concept that is entertaining or humorous. Example: "She proposed an amusing idea for the party theme that had everyone laughing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"Owner's Manual," a reality show that starts on Thursday on AMC, sounds like such an amusing idea.

The New York Times - Arts

Bottom line: Airport dating is an amusing idea, but if you do arrange a rendezvous don't share your flight information or itinerary with your date — you don't want a stranger trailing you in a strange city.

The New York Times - Travel

It's an amusing idea that misses the whole point about the processions, designed by the Shia clergy to encourage obedience, inculcate the idea of an eternal martyrdom and maintain their grip.

The Guardian - Books

It is an amusing idea, but there are fail-safes at trading houses and exchanges that would flag such a mistake.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

In his hands, science fiction assumes the hard, metallic sheen of plausible fact, whereas the longer I suffer each new configuration of "Spider-Man," "Fantastic Four," "Batman," and "X-Men" the more I sense a reluctance, on the part of directors, to think their narratives through, and the louder the hiss of deflation as a neat, amusing idea runs out of puff.

The New Yorker

It's just an amusing thought.

The Guardian - Sport

The beauty of Boulle's amusing idea, and of the best science-fiction ideas in general, is that it encourages us to take a longer view than we're accustomed to; maybe longer than we're entirely comfortable with.

The New York Times

Lorenzo Lotto had the amusing idea to depict "The Sleeping Apollo With the Muses and Fame" (1545-49), in which the god snoozes beside a batch of discarded female garments while the ungoverned muses dance wildly down a hill without a stitch on.

The New York Times - Arts

Ms. O'Brien overplays this initially amusing idea, using it again during the best dancing in the piece: a moody, sweeping solo to Bach piano music for Ms. Dignan, who dips and curls, apparently impervious to the sneers ("that's so bad; you're embarrassing yourself") hurled at her by the others.

The New York Times - Arts

Now, with "The Godfather's Revenge," a once-amusing idea is starting to assume a necrophiliac air.

The New York Times - Books

They're amusing ideas, amusing openings to books but I don't think I can write them.' He has long wanted to write a sex novel from a woman's point of view, and has already thought of the title, A Sexual Biography of my Wife, but he has no idea of the content.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an amusing idea" to introduce a concept that is both humorous and thoughtfully conceived. It's particularly effective when describing creative or unconventional solutions.

Common error

While appropriate in many situations, be mindful of the formality of your writing. In highly formal or academic contexts, consider using more neutral terms like "an interesting concept" or "a novel approach" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an amusing idea" functions as a noun phrase, where "amusing" modifies the noun "idea". It describes a concept that is perceived as entertaining or humorous. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an amusing idea" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It describes a concept that is entertaining and humorous, typically used in a neutral register, mostly in news and media contexts. While there are many alternative phrases, such as "a funny concept" or "a comical notion", the best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember to use it judiciously in formal contexts and be mindful of the intended tone. Ludwig's analysis highlights its function as a descriptive noun phrase with the purpose of introducing enjoyable and thoughtfully conceived concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a funny concept

Focuses more on the humor aspect and less on the thought process behind it.

a comical notion

Emphasizes the lighthearted and humorous nature of the idea.

an entertaining thought

Highlights the enjoyable quality of the idea.

a whimsical concept

Suggests the idea is playful and imaginative.

a lighthearted suggestion

Implies the idea is not serious and intended for amusement.

a delightful proposition

Conveys a sense of pleasure and enjoyment associated with the idea.

a pleasing thought

Focuses on the agreeable and satisfying nature of the idea.

a captivating concept

Highlights the idea's ability to hold one's attention and interest.

a clever scheme

Indicates the idea is ingenious and witty.

a jocular suggestion

Implies the idea is meant to be humorous and playful.

FAQs

How can I use "an amusing idea" in a sentence?

You can use "an amusing idea" to describe a concept that's both funny and thoughtful. For example, "She proposed "an amusing idea" for the office party, suggesting a themed costume contest."

What are some alternatives to "an amusing idea"?

Alternatives include "a funny concept", "a comical notion", or "an entertaining thought" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "an amusing idea" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the formality of your writing. In highly formal contexts, more neutral terms like "an interesting concept" or "a novel approach" might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "an amusing idea" and "an interesting idea"?

"An amusing idea" implies humor and entertainment, while "an interesting idea" simply suggests curiosity and intrigue without necessarily implying amusement. Choose the phrase that best reflects the intended tone and content.