an initial concept

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an initial concept" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the first idea or plan that serves as a starting point for further development or discussion. Example: "Before we move forward with the project, let's discuss an initial concept that outlines our main objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

While we agree that there might be various perspectives to each aspect of a CO, we have developed an initial concept that we believe can be applied to many CO initiatives in general.

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

These late sculptures are placed near the beginning of the show, which was organized by Ann Goldstein, director of the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam (from an initial concept by Eva Meyer-Hermann) and installed in New York by Connie Butler and Peter Eleey.

The New York Times - Arts

"At this time we're showing an initial concept prototype of the product.

TechCrunch

According to sources, an initial concept for the show could have different actresses portraying the Queen at different points in her life.

TechCrunch

Competition runs several rounds (September through April) beginning with the presentation of an initial concept through two grueling Q&A sessions.

Forbes

Combs, she says, came up with an initial concept, tested different scents and eventually began starring in print and online advertisements.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

To think heterologically means to posit a given initial concept (thesis) and then proceed to posit a second concept that can be seen as its 'other' (hetero-thesis), so that the two concepts taken together cover the entirety of the totality to be theoretically determined.

SEP

Modern renderings fall into two main categories: the quick perspective "design-study," by which an architect records or develops his initial concept of a proposed building, and the carefully executed "presentation rendering," which is a final design made for exhibition and publication.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As a next step, and based on this initial concept study, a family of kinetic luminaires will be developed.

Vice

Mr. Holl's initial concept — a formal design will be created in the coming months — features three connected pavilions south of the existing building, amounting to 60,000 square feet.

The New York Times - Arts

3. Access to safe water is a key missing component The initial concept of CLTS focuses on a clean and healthy environment for the entire community, including access to safe water as a key ingredient.

Unicef

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "an initial concept", clearly state that it is subject to change and further development. This manages expectations and encourages constructive feedback.

Common error

Avoid presenting "an initial concept" as a fully formed or definitive plan. Emphasize its preliminary nature to avoid misinterpretations and resistance to future modifications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an initial concept" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a preliminary idea or starting point that requires further development or consideration. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an initial concept" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to introduce a preliminary idea or starting point. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable and appropriate in written English. While not exceptionally frequent, it appears across various contexts, including science, news and media, and formal business settings. When using this phrase, it's important to emphasize the preliminary nature of the idea and avoid presenting it as a fully formed plan. Alternatives include "a preliminary notion" or "a starting idea". The key is to manage expectations and encourage further development.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preliminary notion

This alternative emphasizes the tentative and early nature of the idea.

a starting idea

This alternative focuses on the role of the concept as a beginning point.

a basic concept

This alternative highlights the fundamental and uncomplicated nature of the idea.

a first draft of an idea

This alternative uses a drafting metaphor to convey the early state of development.

an early draft idea

A variation of the above, placing emphasis on the chronological stage.

a tentative plan

This alternative focuses on the planning aspect of the initial concept.

a rudimentary scheme

This emphasizes the basic and undeveloped structure of the initial idea.

a primary hypothesis

This is a more scientific and theoretical formulation of an initial concept.

a seed idea

This uses a metaphorical expression of the concept as a beginning of something bigger, that needs further processing to grow and develop.

a nascent concept

This alternative highlights the emerging or just-coming-into-existence nature of the concept.

FAQs

How can I use "an initial concept" in a sentence?

You can use "an initial concept" to introduce a preliminary idea, such as: "The project began with "an initial concept" for a mobile application, which evolved significantly during the development phase."

What are some alternatives to "an initial concept"?

Some alternatives to "an initial concept" include "a preliminary notion", "a starting idea", or "a basic concept", depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "initial initial concept"?

Yes, using "initial initial concept" is redundant. The word "initial" already implies that it's the first or earliest concept. Using it twice doesn't add any value and can sound awkward.

When should I use "an initial concept" versus "a final concept"?

"An initial concept" should be used when describing the beginning stages of planning or ideation. "A final concept" refers to the completed and approved idea after development and revisions.