conveys an idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "conveys an idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing how a piece of writing, art, or communication expresses a particular thought or concept. Example: "The poem beautifully conveys an idea of longing and nostalgia through its imagery and tone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

This next chart conveys an idea of changes over time in the money flow through major public and private insurance programs and through out-of-pocket payments by patients.

The New York Times

It conveys an idea of how this extraordinary machinery works at a change of government".

BBC

It conveys an idea that the ME estimate is maximally noncommittal with respect to unknown information, any other estimations will lead to biased results.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

Figure 1 visually conveys an idea of the size distribution of this network of human complexes, as well as reflecting its highly interconnected nature.

Plosone

1. Imagery Conveys an Idea Better Than Text There is no need to use copious amounts of copy to get across core messages to your audience.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It is designed to convey an idea of inevitability.

The Economist

In music, it was to convey an idea or affect through a wash of sound rather than a strict formal structure.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But offering a lesson to teenagers is less graceful, less subtle, than conveying an idea or theme, and these books can feel like after-school specials.

The New York Times - Books

It was a cool moment to be able to convey an idea to someone and be able to see them execute it".

The Guardian

"I think photography is closest to writing, not painting," she once said, "because you are using this machine to convey an idea".

The Guardian - Arts

I believe that the purpose of language is to convey an idea and I personally don't like language getting in the way.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "conveys an idea" when you want to express that something effectively communicates a particular concept or understanding to an audience. Consider stronger verbs if you aim for more impact or precision.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "conveys an idea" if a more specific verb can better describe the type of communication happening. For example, use 'demonstrates', 'argues', or 'illustrates' for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "conveys an idea" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of communicating or expressing a thought or concept effectively. As seen in Ludwig, the phrase describes how something effectively communicates a concept or understanding to an audience.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "conveys an idea" is a grammatically correct and usable expression for describing how something effectively communicates a particular thought or concept. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and the phrase finds common use in diverse contexts such as News & Media and Science. While there are many semantically similar alternatives—like "expresses a concept" or "communicates a notion"—the choice depends on the nuance you wish to impart. Remember to avoid overuse and seek more specific verbs where appropriate to enhance clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expresses a concept

Focuses on the articulation of a distinct concept, implying a more defined and structured thought.

communicates a notion

Emphasizes the transmission of a general understanding or belief.

imparts a thought

Highlights the act of sharing or bestowing a specific thought to someone.

presents a viewpoint

Indicates the offering of a particular perspective or stance on a subject.

suggests a theme

Implies the indication of a recurring subject or message.

illustrates a principle

Emphasizes the clarification of a fundamental truth or rule through example.

projects a feeling

Focuses on the expression of an emotion or sentiment.

embodies a meaning

Highlights the tangible representation or encapsulation of significance.

hints at a possibility

Suggests a potential or unrealized thought, often subtle or indirect.

evokes an impression

Focuses on creating a sensory or emotional effect on the audience.

FAQs

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

You can use "conveys an idea" to describe how a piece of art, writing, or communication expresses a specific thought or concept. For instance, "The painting beautifully conveys an idea of longing and nostalgia."

What are some alternatives to "conveys an idea"?

You can use alternatives like "expresses a concept", "communicates a notion", or "imparts a thought" depending on the context.

Is "conveys an idea" formal or informal?

"Conveys an idea" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, for highly formal or academic writing, consider more precise alternatives like "elucidates a principle" or "articulates a viewpoint".

How does "conveys an idea" differ from "suggests an idea"?

"Conveys an idea" implies a clearer, more direct communication of a concept, while "suggests an idea" indicates a more subtle or indirect hint of a concept. The former is more definitive, the latter more speculative.