definite ideas

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definite ideas" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to clear, specific, and well-defined concepts or thoughts. Example: "In our discussion, we need to focus on definite ideas that can lead to actionable solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

She said she has some definite ideas about scissors.

The New York Times - Tech

Even before Brandenn was born, Patti had definite ideas about her child.

The New Yorker

"He's got very definite ideas about aesthetic issues," said Nancy Maniscalco, a friend from the neighborhood.

The New York Times - Style

And he had very definite ideas about what I should do.

The New York Times - Arts

So he had some definite ideas for "Ghost Dog," he said.

The New York Times

She had definite ideas for Flaming Saddles — "I had opened 25 other bars," she said.

The New York Times

Even at this early point in his career, Erdős had definite ideas about mathematical elegance.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But Mr. Balcer had definite ideas about Hudson's place in the academic world.

The New York Times

"It was very tough for Katie Hepburn," says Allen. "She had very definite ideas about everything and everybody.

The Guardian - Film

Every movie is an organic process, but he always had very definite ideas about what he wanted script-wise".

The New York Times

"I have some very definite ideas and feelings about what the company should be," Ms. Johnson said.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definite ideas" to convey that someone has well-formed and specific thoughts or plans, adding clarity and purpose to your writing.

Common error

Don't use "definite ideas" when the context requires flexibility or openness to suggestions; instead, opt for phrases like "potential ideas" or "preliminary thoughts".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definite ideas" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "definite" modifies the noun "ideas". It describes the quality of the ideas being clear, specific, and well-formed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definite ideas" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe clear, specific, and well-formed thoughts. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and applicable across various contexts, mainly in News & Media, Encyclopedias and Science domains. The phrase carries a neutral tone and can be effectively used to emphasize clarity and purpose in writing. Alternatives such as "clear notions" or "specific concepts" may be used based on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clear notions

Emphasizes the clarity and distinctness of the ideas.

well-defined concepts

Focuses on how well the concepts are defined.

specific concepts

Highlights the particularity and precision of the concepts.

precise thoughts

Focuses on the exactness and accuracy of the thoughts.

concrete thoughts

Emphasizes how tangible and realistic the thoughts are.

firm beliefs

Stresses the strength and conviction behind the beliefs.

distinct understandings

Underlines clear and differentiated understandings.

certain opinions

Underscores the confidence and assurance in the opinions.

settled convictions

Highlights how the convictions are well-established.

fixed views

Implies a rigidity and unchangeableness in the views.

FAQs

How can I use "definite ideas" in a sentence?

You can use "definite ideas" to indicate someone has specific and well-formed thoughts, for example, "She has "definite ideas" about how to improve the process."

What are some alternatives to "definite ideas"?

Alternatives include "clear notions", "specific concepts", or "precise thoughts", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "definite ideas" or "tangible ideas"?

While both can be correct, "definite ideas" emphasizes clarity and specificity, while "tangible ideas" suggests practicality and real-world applicability. Choose the phrase that best fits the context.

What's the difference between "definite ideas" and "firm ideas"?

"Definite ideas" focuses on the clarity and specificity of the thoughts, whereas "firm ideas" highlights the strength and conviction behind those thoughts.