firm ideas

USAGE SUMMARY

'firm ideas' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone has ideas that are strongly held or fixed in their beliefs or opinions, and not easily changed. For example, "My father had some very firm ideas about how to run a family business which he passed on to me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the strands are bound together by firm ideas.

The Guardian

Maegle, the victim of another illogical act, had firm ideas on Alosi's punishment.

The New York Times - Sports

Certainly qualified, Mr Biggs had firm ideas about how to straighten out American's accounting industry.

The Economist

Mr. McQuarrie brought fairly firm ideas to his first job directing.

The New York Times

She formed a consulting firm, Ideas & Interiors, and also held early patents in women's leisure wear.

The New York Times

Fraser came to the prime ministership in 1975 with firm ideas on foreign affairs.

The Guardian

Musicians who have played with Mr. Luisi praise his crystalline technique, firm ideas about the score and excellent preparation.

The New York Times - Arts

He had firm ideas about plot and character, which he conveyed with an air of intimate confidentiality.

The New Yorker

They were knowledgeable about such matters as exercise regimens, physiotherapy, and muscle physiology, and some had firm ideas about diet.

The New Yorker

Some fear it, some embrace it, and most have pretty firm ideas about what happens when we die.

Stanford University

He has some very firm ideas about flourishing; in fact, he starts to be a bit of a pest.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "firm ideas", ensure the context clearly indicates who holds these ideas and what makes them firm, whether it's conviction, evidence, or experience.

Common error

Don't just say someone has "firm ideas" without specifying what those ideas are or why they are considered firm. Provide context to show the substance and basis of their convictions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "firm ideas" functions as a noun phrase, where "firm" modifies the noun "ideas". It describes the quality of the ideas, indicating they are strongly held, well-defined, or not easily changed. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

21%

Science

11%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "firm ideas" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe someone's strongly held beliefs or opinions. As evidenced by Ludwig's numerous examples, it appears frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you provide sufficient context to clarify the nature and substance of these ideas. Remember, alternatives like "resolute ideas" or "definite opinions" can offer subtle nuances depending on the specific message you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolute ideas

Highlights the unwavering and determined nature of the ideas.

strict ideas

Emphasizes the rigid and inflexible nature of the ideas.

solid ideas

Indicates well-founded and reliable ideas.

bold ideas

Focuses on the innovative and daring nature of the ideas.

definite ideas

Stresses the clear and well-defined nature of the ideas.

strong ideas

Highlights the powerful and impactful nature of the ideas.

unshakeable beliefs

Focuses on the unwavering conviction behind the ideas.

convictions

Highlights the deeply held nature of the beliefs.

settled notions

Emphasizes the established and unchanging aspect of the ideas.

established opinions

Focuses on the long-held and widely accepted nature of the ideas.

FAQs

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

You can use "firm ideas" to describe someone who holds strong beliefs or opinions. For example, "The politician has "firm ideas" about economic policy."

What's a good alternative to "firm ideas"?

Alternatives include "resolute ideas", "strong beliefs", or "definite opinions", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "firm ideas" or "strong opinions"?

Both "firm ideas" and "strong opinions" are acceptable, but "firm ideas" might suggest a more structured or reasoned set of beliefs, while "strong opinions" focuses on the intensity of the belief.

What does it mean when someone is described as having "firm ideas"?

It means they have well-established, possibly unwavering, beliefs or opinions about a particular subject. These "firm ideas" guide their actions and decisions.