Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
excellent thought
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "excellent thought" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express appreciation for someone's idea or suggestion, indicating that you find it insightful or valuable. Example: "I really appreciate your input during the meeting; that was an excellent thought that could improve our project."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Wiki
Formal & Business
Academia
Encyclopedias
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
3 human-written examples
I also recommend that you follow Hartley on Twitter at @ScotteHartley for his excellent thought leadership and shared wisdom.
News & Media
"I thought the boys were excellent, thought the work-rate was different class," he said.
News & Media
Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert, speaking to BBC Sport: "I thought we were excellent thought the game.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
57 human-written examples
CARL RICHARDS COMMENTSWhat an excellent, thought-provoking topic to address.
News & Media
Then there are seasons one to eight of House on the way for TV lovers and some excellent, thought-provoking documentaries including Korengal, Virunga, Marmato and Artifact.
News & Media
As a "data holder" my thoughts leap to thinking about solutions, of course, but I expect you'll have some similarly excellent thoughts in your next post.
Academia
And he has some excellent thoughts on how we can, generally, divide working methods into those led by instinct and those led by intellect.
News & Media
Dryden described this as "remov[ing] that heap of Rubbish, under which many excellent thoughts lay bury'd".
Wiki
The above is by no means intended to deter readers from carefully going through the entire article (its length notwithstanding): it is excellent, thought-provoking reading.
Science
Moral virtues belong to the appetites and desires of the sensory soul — the part obviously associated with the active political life, when its activities are brought under the guidance and control of excellent practical thought and judgment.
Science
E.C. Walker was co-editor of the excellent free-thought / free love journal Lucifer, the Light-Bearer".
Wiki
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "excellent thought" to genuinely acknowledge a valuable contribution, but vary your language to avoid repetition. For example, follow it with a specific explanation of why the thought is valuable.
Common error
Avoid using "excellent thought" too frequently in casual conversations, as it can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "good point" or "that's a great idea" in informal settings.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "excellent thought" functions as an adjective-noun phrase used to express approval or appreciation of an idea. As shown by Ludwig, it serves to highlight the value of a particular idea or perspective.
Frequent in
News & Media
35%
Science
20%
Wiki
15%
Less common in
Formal & Business
10%
Academia
10%
Encyclopedias
10%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "excellent thought" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase to express appreciation for a valuable idea. As Ludwig confirms, it is more appropriate for professional contexts but has been used in news, science, encyclopedia and other contexts. While considered an adjective-noun phrase with positive connotations, overuse can sound repetitive. Therefore, consider variations such as "brilliant concept", "remarkable idea", or "outstanding suggestion" to maintain variety. Tailor your language to the audience and context for effective communication.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
remarkable idea
Replaces "thought" with "idea", changing the noun while maintaining the positive appraisal.
brilliant concept
Substitutes both the adjective and noun, suggesting a highly intelligent and original idea.
outstanding suggestion
Replaces "thought" with "suggestion", indicating a helpful proposal.
terrific notion
Uses different synonyms for both words to express strong approval of a concept.
wonderful insight
Changes the noun to "insight", implying a deep understanding.
superb thinking
Transforms the noun into a gerund, focusing on the process of thought.
exceptional perspective
Replaces both words to denote a unique and valuable viewpoint.
first-rate idea
Uses a different adjective and noun to convey high quality.
admirable consideration
Emphasizes the careful and thoughtful nature of the idea.
commendable point
Replaces "thought" with "point", focusing on a specific argument or observation.
FAQs
How can I use "excellent thought" in a sentence?
You can use "excellent thought" to express appreciation for a valuable idea. For instance, "That's an "excellent thought"; it could solve our problem effectively."
What can I say instead of "excellent thought"?
You can use alternatives like "great idea", "brilliant suggestion", or "terrific notion" depending on the context.
Is "excellent thought" suitable for both formal and informal situations?
While grammatically correct, "excellent thought" is generally more appropriate for formal or professional settings. In informal contexts, simpler phrases like "good point" might be more suitable.
What makes a thought "excellent"?
An "excellent thought" typically demonstrates insight, originality, and potential value in addressing a problem or advancing a discussion. It goes beyond the obvious and offers a constructive perspective.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested