entrenched idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "entrenched idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a belief or concept that is firmly established and difficult to change. Example: "The entrenched idea that success is solely based on hard work often overlooks the role of privilege and opportunity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Its title is an important clue to the old-fashioned, deeply entrenched idea that made this foreign adventure possible.

Los Angeles Times

She said she hoped the existence of the new league would do away with the entrenched idea that women should play only softball.

The New York Times - Sports

Requested by a bipartisan group of legislators and scheduled to be distributed to every member of Congress, it is intended as a rallying cry against the entrenched idea that the humanities and social sciences are luxuries that employment-minded students can ill afford.

The New York Times - Arts

Open source is also antithetical to the entrenched idea of the single author.

Vice

Because of this deeply entrenched idea, she gives and gives and gives to others and never cares for herself.

HuffPost

This is such an entrenched idea among progressives like myself that it's become universally accepted as dogma.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

The idea was hotly debated because it forced biologists to rethink entrenched ideas about evolutionary patterns and processes.

Harvard University

One of the most influential evolutionary biologists of the 20th century and perhaps the best known since Charles Darwin, Dr. Gould touched off numerous debates, forcing scientists to rethink sometimes entrenched ideas about evolutionary patterns and processes.

The New York Times

There are deeply entrenched ideas about how dance companies function.

Huffington Post

Your firmly entrenched ideas and labels were a bright target I aimed for, and I was not patient through our struggles to listen to each other.

HuffPost

It's hard to blame Keszler for having entrenched ideas about music, since it's been part of his life since he was a child growing up in Boston.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When challenging a "entrenched idea", acknowledge its historical context and the reasons for its initial acceptance to build credibility with your audience.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that an "entrenched idea" is old or outdated. Instead, focus on how it no longer serves its purpose or conflicts with new evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "entrenched idea" functions as a noun phrase, where 'entrenched' modifies the noun 'idea'. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts. It describes an idea that is firmly established and difficult to change.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

12.5%

Less common in

Science

12.5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "entrenched idea" is a valid and frequently used phrase to describe a firmly established belief that resists change. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and business. To effectively use the phrase, recognize the contexts where these ideas persist and understand how to present counter-arguments persuasively. While the phrase is widely accepted, avoid simply labeling an idea as old; focus instead on its current relevance and impact. Consider alternatives like ""deep-seated belief"" or ""ingrained notion"" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deep-seated belief

Emphasizes the emotional or psychological depth of the belief.

ingrained notion

Highlights how the idea has become a fundamental part of someone's thinking.

firmly held conviction

Stresses the strength and resoluteness with which the idea is believed.

deep-rooted concept

Focuses on the historical or foundational entrenchment of the idea.

established principle

Suggests the idea is widely accepted and serves as a basis for reasoning.

traditional mindset

Implies the idea is part of a long-standing cultural or societal norm.

conventional wisdom

Highlights the idea as a commonly accepted belief, often without critical examination.

fixed point of view

Emphasizes the inflexibility and resistance to change of the idea.

hardened perspective

Suggests the idea has become resistant to influence due to repeated reinforcement.

settled understanding

Indicates that the idea is a matter of established agreement or consensus.

FAQs

How can I challenge an "entrenched idea" effectively?

To challenge an "entrenched idea", present well-researched evidence, acknowledge counterarguments, and use persuasive language to encourage open-mindedness. Highlight the benefits of adopting a new perspective.

What are some synonyms for "entrenched idea"?

Alternatives to "entrenched idea" include "deep-seated belief", "ingrained notion", or "firmly held conviction", each carrying a slightly different nuance.

How does an "entrenched idea" affect progress?

An "entrenched idea" can hinder progress by creating resistance to change and innovation. It may lead to stagnation and prevent the adoption of more effective strategies or perspectives.

What is the difference between "entrenched idea" and "popular belief"?

While a "popular belief" is widely accepted, an "entrenched idea" is not only widespread but also deeply rooted and resistant to change. Overcoming it often requires significant effort and evidence.