diffusion of ideas

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "diffusion of ideas" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the spread or sharing of concepts, thoughts, or innovations among individuals or groups. Example: "The internet has greatly facilitated the diffusion of ideas across the globe, allowing for diverse perspectives to be shared."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

This should encourage investment in inventions and faster diffusion of ideas.

The New York Times

Even more important, non-competes also limit the diffusion of ideas and information between companies, which we know plays a crucial role in driving innovation.

The New Yorker

And developing countries, being poorer, obviously have more to gain from shorter patent terms for foreign innovations, since that facilitates the spread of new technology and the diffusion of ideas.

The New Yorker

Maybe Grafton Eliot Smith's misjudged theory of diffusion of ideas from ancient Egypt to the Torres Strait makes some kind of sense in the light of what we now know of ancient palaeolithic expansions around the rim of the Indian Ocean.

The Guardian

Social networks play a key role in diffusion of ideas, opinions and recommendations.

Journal of Big Data

The former states that the diffusion of ideas or information tends to have a bigger impact if networks consist of weaker ties.

Journal of Organization Design

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

"However, it gives a good indication as far as the two most extreme models are concerned, with demic diffusion (expanding farmers) on one side and a strict cultural diffusion (transfer of ideas) on the other".

BBC

This model is, therefore, useful in explaining the diffusion process of ideas in a political arena by highlighting those who enabled it.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

People who push for greater innovation in the marketplace often naïvely assume that what is good for the innovator is also, down the line, good for the diffusion of their ideas.

The New Yorker

Tarde's work in this area influenced later thinking about the concepts of social psychology and the diffusion of social ideas.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In this sense, his work seems to precede the diffusion of new ideas and attitudes and to be the agent of change.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about the spread of ideas, consider the specific context. Use "diffusion of ideas" to emphasize a gradual spread across a population or field, rather than a sudden or imposed change.

Common error

Avoid using "diffusion of ideas" in contexts where a more precise term like "implementation", "introduction", or "communication" would be more appropriate. Always ensure the term accurately reflects the gradual and widespread nature of the idea's spread.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "diffusion of ideas" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples show it often describes a process or phenomenon related to the spread of concepts and innovations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "diffusion of ideas" is a grammatically correct and relatively common term used to describe how concepts spread throughout a population or field. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is most frequently encountered in scientific and news contexts, indicating a formal register. Alternative phrases like "spread of concepts" or "dissemination of knowledge" can provide similar meanings, but the specific context should guide the choice. When using the term, ensure that the ideas truly undergo a gradual spread, and avoid using it in place of more precise terms such as implementation or introduction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spread of concepts

Focuses on the expansion of general concepts rather than specific ideas.

dissemination of knowledge

Highlights the formal distribution of established knowledge.

transmission of thought

Emphasizes the passing along of a specific train of thought.

propagation of innovation

Specifically relates to the spread of new and innovative concepts.

circulation of information

Implies a broader sharing of factual data.

exchange of views

Focuses on the reciprocal sharing of opinions.

flow of insights

Suggests a natural and continuous movement of perceptive understandings.

proliferation of theories

Concentrates on the increasing number and reach of theoretical frameworks.

ascension of ideologies

Highlights how ideologies grow and gain acceptance.

evolution of understanding

Focuses on the gradual development and spreading of comprehension.

FAQs

What does the phrase "diffusion of ideas" mean?

The "diffusion of ideas" refers to the process by which new concepts, practices, or technologies spread within a population or society over time. It involves communication and adoption by various individuals or groups.

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

You might say, "Social media plays a significant role in the "diffusion of ideas", allowing information to spread rapidly across geographical boundaries."

What's a good alternative to "diffusion of ideas"?

Alternatives include "spread of ideas", "dissemination of knowledge", or "transmission of thought", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "diffusion of ideas" the same as "implementation of ideas"?

No, "diffusion of ideas" focuses on the spread and adoption of concepts, while "implementation of ideas" refers to the practical execution or application of those concepts in a specific setting. The "implementation of ideas" follows the diffusion process.