an entertaining idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an entertaining idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a concept or thought that is amusing or enjoyable to consider. Example: "The proposal for a themed office party was an entertaining idea that everyone loved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Instead, the Fox executives defended themselves against criticism of the show's format by saying it was not done to break up the couples but was an entertaining idea and an "unscripted soap opera".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's obvious that few people were listening to us, or to such industry icons as Bill Bernbach and David Ogilvy, who defined creativity as a selling message ensconced in a relevant entertaining idea.

Forbes

"It's a very entertaining idea," he says, "but as a scientist I feel like we should think about whether it is correct".

The New Yorker

He has also developed a dramatically entertaining idea of how dynamic groups work together.

The New Yorker

It was a clever, entertaining idea and proof, if any was needed, that the soulful cello can attract a crowd and satisfy it.

The New York Times - Arts

This movie from Gillian Armstrong begins with an ingenious and entertaining idea.

The Guardian - Film

Paul: I can't say yet, but it is certainly the most entertaining idea we've ever funded.

TechCrunch

Waiting for the ground to defrost, serious plant people will be starting seeds indoors right about now, and entertaining ideas of a glorious landscape come spring.

The New York Times

Ignoring the distinction between entertaining ideas and holding beliefs, this means that we when we entertain the idea of that than which no greater can be conceived, we entertain the idea of a being which exists only in the understanding.

SEP

While this argument does not look very compelling, it is plausible to claim that it would have seemed compelling to someone who failed to attend to the distinction which we have drawn between entertaining ideas and holding beliefs, and who was also a bit hazy on the distinction between the vehicles of belief and their contents.

SEP

In this book, we document our entertaining ideas and the recipes Grandma made".

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an entertaining idea" when brainstorming or presenting novel strategies that prioritize enjoyment and engagement.

Common error

While "an entertaining idea" is suitable for informal and creative settings, avoid it in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise terms like "innovative strategy", "engaging concept", or "promising approach" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an entertaining idea" functions as a noun phrase, where "entertaining" serves as an adjective modifying the noun "idea". As shown by Ludwig, it describes a concept that is enjoyable or amusing.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an entertaining idea" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a concept or thought as amusing or enjoyable. While primarily found in news and media contexts, as per Ludwig's analysis, it can also appear in scientific or business settings. While Ludwig confirmed the correctness of the phrase, it's crucial to consider the context. For highly formal settings, consider alternatives like "engaging concept" or "innovative strategy". Using "an entertaining idea" effectively means recognizing its inherent informality and choosing contexts where its playful tone enhances rather than detracts from the message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a delightful concept

Replaces "entertaining" with "delightful", focusing on the pleasant and enjoyable aspect of the idea.

a captivating notion

Substitutes "entertaining" with "captivating", emphasizing the idea's ability to hold attention and interest.

an amusing proposition

Replaces "idea" with "proposition" and "entertaining" with "amusing", indicating a lighthearted and humorous suggestion.

a stimulating thought

Changes "entertaining" to "stimulating", highlighting the idea's capacity to encourage thought and discussion.

a playful concept

Replaces "entertaining" with "playful", suggesting the idea is light, fun, and not entirely serious.

a whimsical suggestion

Substitutes "entertaining" with "whimsical" and "idea" with "suggestion", conveying a sense of creativity and unpredictability.

a diverting plan

Replaces "entertaining" with "diverting" and "idea" with "plan", focusing on the idea's ability to distract and amuse.

a fascinating thought

Changes "entertaining" to "fascinating", emphasizing the idea's intriguing and captivating nature.

a brilliant concept

Substitutes "entertaining" with "brilliant", highlighting the idea's cleverness and ingenuity.

an ingenious approach

Replaces "entertaining" with "ingenious" and "idea" with "approach", focusing on the idea's innovative and clever solution.

FAQs

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

You can use "an entertaining idea" to describe a concept that is amusing or enjoyable. For example, "The show had its flaws, but the core concept was "an entertaining idea" and an 'unscripted soap opera'".

What can I say instead of "an entertaining idea"?

You can use alternatives like "a delightful concept", "a captivating notion", or "a stimulating thought" depending on the specific context.

Is "an entertaining idea" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "an entertaining idea" might be too informal for academic or professional contexts. Consider using more formal alternatives like "engaging concept" or "innovative strategy".

What makes an idea "entertaining"?

An idea is "entertaining" if it is amusing, enjoyable, or creatively stimulating. It often involves novelty, humor, or a unique perspective that captures attention and interest.