entertain the idea

USAGE SUMMARY

"entertain the idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to express that you are considering or thinking about an idea, or when you want to suggest that someone else consider an idea. Example sentence: I don't think it's a good idea, but let's entertain the idea for now.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Ignoring the distinction between entertaining ideas and holding beliefs, this means that we when we entertain the idea of that than which no greater can be conceived, we entertain the idea of a being which exists only in the understanding.

SEP

He wouldn't entertain the idea.

The New York Times - Sports

– entertain the idea of changing their mind.

The Guardian - Opinion

Dino initially refused to entertain the idea of moving.

The Guardian - Sport

I won't even entertain the idea of the skull.

The New York Times

Parliament had previously refused to entertain the idea.

The Guardian

Mr. Boehner chuckled, but did not entertain the idea for long.

The New York Times

Would she be able even to entertain the idea of a political comeback?

The New York Times

After this success, General Conté began to entertain the idea of reapportioning the Simandou deposit.

The New Yorker

(They don't entertain the idea that somebody might actually know the answer).

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

She soon began entertaining the idea of recording an album.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "entertain the idea" when you want to suggest that someone should be open-minded and consider a new or different perspective, even if they initially disagree with it.

Common error

Be careful not to use "entertain the idea" sarcastically to shut down discussion. It is more effective when genuinely encouraging consideration before making a decision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "entertain the idea" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the act of considering or thinking about a particular concept or proposal. Ludwig confirms its correct usage, showing it's a standard way to express the consideration of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "entertain the idea" is a common and grammatically correct way to suggest considering a particular concept or proposal. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, especially in news and media. While appropriate for both formal and informal settings, synonyms like contemplate or consider might be preferred in more formal academic or scientific writing. When using this phrase, ensure you are genuinely encouraging open-minded consideration rather than dismissively shutting down discussion. Examples on Ludwig demonstrate its effectiveness in prompting thoughtful exploration of different perspectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Consider the possibility

Focuses more on the possibility aspect of an idea.

Ponder the notion

Implies a deeper, more thoughtful consideration.

Contemplate the thought

Suggests a more formal and reflective consideration.

Explore the concept

Indicates a more active investigation of an idea.

Give thought to

A more general way of saying consider something.

Consider the viewpoint

Highlights considering an idea from a specific perspective.

Reflect on the matter

Emphasizes thoughtful consideration over time.

Deliberate on the subject

Suggests a careful and thorough consideration, often involving discussion.

Hear the idea

Focuses on listening to and understanding an idea rather than necessarily accepting it.

Play with the idea

Suggests a less serious, more exploratory approach to considering an idea.

FAQs

How can I use "entertain the idea" in a sentence?

You can use "entertain the idea" to suggest considering a thought, plan, or suggestion. For example, "Let's at least "entertain the idea" of moving to a new city before making a final decision".

What are some alternatives to "entertain the idea"?

Alternatives include phrases like "consider the possibility", "ponder the notion", or "contemplate the thought", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "entertain the idea" in formal writing?

Yes, "entertain the idea" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in more formal writing, you might also consider "contemplate the idea" or "consider the possibility".

What does it mean to "entertain the idea"?

To "entertain the idea" means to consider something, perhaps temporarily or hypothetically, without necessarily accepting it as true or committing to it.