collision of ideas

USAGE SUMMARY

"collision of ideas" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to two distinct ideas that are brought together and are at odds with each other. For example, "The collision of conservative and progressive ideas created a tense political atmosphere."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Yes, it's a collision of ideas and images.

The New York Times

It is a strange and wonderful collision of ideas.

The Guardian

The design reflects a conviction that the collision of ideas, even more than architectural forms, gives cities their civilizing power.

The New York Times - Arts

It's from a press I've never heard of called Minted Prose, whose mission is to "immerse readers in the collision of ideas, art, science and society".

The New Yorker

Mr. Woodruff holds similar views about the collision of ideas, sounds and images on stage and the importance of improvisation and the process of creating theatrical work.

The New York Times

Our libraries should be places that encourage the collision of ideas and the challenge of opinions and which open up, not close off, doors to new worlds of knowledge, experience, and adventure".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

You set up a tableau with conditions for collisions of ideas and let the thing run.

The Guardian

Places are no longer fixed, Just seems to suggest; instead, they're continually evolving collisions of ideas.

The New York Times

This is a trusted recipe that, like so many recipes, is a collisions of ideas – a River Cafe recipe, a dish once made by a friend, a picture – all mixed up and made mine.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The potential of brainstorming is realised only if collisions of ideas are not only possible, but happen.

BBC

And much like the doctrine of checks and balances in the Constitution, the enshrinement of argument created a permanent collision of juxtaposed ideas and interests that generated a dynamic and wholly modern version of political stability.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "collision of ideas" to vividly describe situations where different concepts clash, interact, or lead to new insights. This phrase is particularly effective when discussing debates, creative processes, or periods of significant change.

Common error

Avoid using "collision of ideas" when you simply mean the combination or integration of similar ideas. The phrase implies a degree of conflict or tension, so ensure that this nuance is appropriate for your context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "collision of ideas" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a situation where differing concepts or viewpoints interact, often resulting in conflict or new understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "collision of ideas" is a valid and useful expression for describing situations where different concepts clash or interact. According to Ludwig AI, it is suitable for formal and informal contexts. While it is most frequently used in news and academic writing, it's essential to remember that it implies a degree of conflict or tension. Alternatives such as "encounter of ideas" or "exchange of ideas" may be more appropriate when a harmonious interaction is intended. Always consider the specific context to ensure the chosen phrase accurately reflects the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clash of ideas

Replaces "collision" with "clash", suggesting a more direct conflict.

conflict of ideas

Substitutes "collision" with "conflict", highlighting disagreement between ideas.

encounter of ideas

Substitutes "collision" with "encounter", implying a meeting or confrontation.

confrontation of ideas

Replaces "collision" with "confrontation", emphasizing a more forceful opposition.

intersection of ideas

Substitutes "collision" with "intersection", suggesting a point where ideas meet and possibly overlap.

battle of ideas

Substitutes "collision" with "battle", implying a struggle between different ideas.

convergence of ideas

Replaces "collision" with "convergence", suggesting that ideas are merging.

juxtaposition of ideas

Replaces "collision" with "juxtaposition", suggesting ideas are placed side by side for comparison.

interaction of ideas

Replaces "collision" with "interaction", focusing on the process of ideas affecting each other.

cross-pollination of ideas

Uses a metaphor of cross-pollination to describe the mixing of ideas.

FAQs

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

You can use "collision of ideas" to describe situations where different concepts clash or interact, such as "The debate was a fascinating "collision of ideas" between conservatives and liberals".

What's the difference between "collision of ideas" and "exchange of ideas"?

"Collision of ideas" implies a certain amount of conflict or disagreement, while "exchange of ideas" suggests a more harmonious and collaborative sharing of perspectives.

What can I say instead of "collision of ideas" to imply agreement?

If you want to express agreement, consider using alternatives such as "convergence of ideas" or "meeting of minds".

Is "collision of ideas" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "collision of ideas" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in academic or journalistic contexts, when accurately describing the interaction of conflicting concepts.