chain of ideas

USAGE SUMMARY

"chain of ideas" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
For example, "The author suggests a chain of ideas for improving communication within the workplace, beginning with implementing mandatory team-building activities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Even though the floor is yours, think of the presentation as a two-way conversation as your interviewer is following your chain of ideas.

The Guardian

In following the chain of ideas that led to Feynman's Nobel, Krauss begins with a familiar phenomenon — the way a light ray takes a sudden bend when it enters a pool of water.

The New York Times - Books

Though she's known among musicians as a pianist, the liberties she was taking with the songs and the steady, unflappable chain of ideas she brought to the music made the music bristle with intelligence and care.

The New York Times - Arts

"There's a missing link in the chain of ideas from pure academic research to public policy," said Heckman, a world-renowned expert on the economics of human development.

University of Chicago

"We looked at our last expedition and said, 'This is more complex logistically and technologically than a feature motion picture,'" Cameron said, describing the chain of ideas that led to "Sanctum". So Cameron decided to do what he often does: combine a dive with a film shoot.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

If he had known more, it might have led him to produce less interesting chains of ideas.

The New York Times

Ideas feed in and give you a whole chain of other ideas.

The Guardian

Towering above the bunks are enlarged versions of well-known pieces — some familiar from past Unilever commissions — that create a daisy chain of mutating ideas, bodies and species.

The New York Times - Arts

As well as enlivening commercial culture with a trickle-up supply chain of new ideas, music on the margins offers many a sense of shared purpose.

The Guardian - Music

These associations can set off a chain of new ideas ranging from specific to abstract.

Forbes

This isn't really a surprise, because Mari Vanna is part of a small chain of theme restaurants, focusing on the idea of Russian nostalgia, and on this evidence they are wonderful.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a complex argument, use the phrase "chain of ideas" to clearly indicate how each point logically connects to the next, ensuring your audience can follow your reasoning.

Common error

While "chain of ideas" is useful, avoid using it repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "line of reasoning" or "succession of ideas" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chain of ideas" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a series of interconnected thoughts or concepts, often presented in a logical or sequential manner. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valid and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

40%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "chain of ideas" is a valid and usable term, as confirmed by Ludwig, referring to a connected series of thoughts or concepts. While grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, it appears most frequently in news and media, academic, and scientific writing. When employing this phrase, ensure you’re clearly illustrating a logical progression or interconnectedness between the ideas presented. Alternatives such as "string of ideas" or "succession of ideas" can provide variety and nuance to your writing. As Ludwig's analysis shows, avoiding overuse and ensuring contextual clarity are key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

string of ideas

This alternative replaces "chain" with "string", suggesting a linear sequence of connected thoughts.

succession of ideas

Using "succession" emphasizes the sequential nature of the ideas, one following another.

stream of ideas

This alternative evokes a continuous flow of thoughts, suggesting a less structured sequence.

line of reasoning

This alternative focuses on the logical connection and progression of thoughts, implying a structured argument.

train of thought

Similar to "stream of ideas", but implies a more directed and focused sequence.

sequence of thoughts

Replaces "ideas" with "thoughts" to slightly broaden the meaning, while maintaining the sense of order.

logical progression

This option highlights the step-by-step aspect of logical thinking.

connected thoughts

This phrase focuses on the interrelatedness of the thoughts without necessarily implying a specific order.

flow of concepts

This substitutes both the noun and the verb to talk about the general progression of one concept to another.

series of concepts

By saying series of concepts the meaning is more about multiple concepts grouped by themes rather than a logical connection.

FAQs

How can I use "chain of ideas" in a sentence?

You can use "chain of ideas" to describe a logical sequence of thoughts. For example, "The speaker presented a clear "chain of ideas" to support their argument."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "chain of ideas"?

Alternatives include "string of ideas", "succession of ideas", or "train of thought", each emphasizing the sequential and interconnected nature of thoughts.

Is "chain of ideas" formal or informal?

"Chain of ideas" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it's often found in more analytical or descriptive writing.

What's the difference between "chain of ideas" and "stream of consciousness"?

"Chain of ideas" suggests a logical progression, while "stream of consciousness" implies a more free-flowing and unstructured sequence of thoughts.