formulate an idea

USAGE SUMMARY

"formulate an idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe the process of forming an idea or plan. For example: "Brainstorming is an effective way to formulate an idea for a new business venture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

By mid-week, at an event in Atlanta, where Trump was introduced as "the man who is going to save America," he had managed to formulate an idea of foreignness that was indifferent to citizenship.

The New Yorker

In most cases, there are already scientific contacts between the researcher and the host, and they jointly formulate an idea for a research project.

Science Magazine

They could then be viewed and analysed in greater depth to formulate an idea of the web-based focus of the institution and where the institutional priority lay.

International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education

In order to fix this problem, "the most important thing today is for young people to take responsibility, to actually know how to formulate an idea and how to work on it.

Science Magazine

For example, I want to talk and share with anyone who will listen and I often just blurt things out as a way to process what's happening and formulate an idea.

Huffington Post

Aghast at the injustice, eaten up by his helplessness to do anything for his wife - other than visit regularly with their increasingly remote son - John begins to formulate an idea.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

So Mr. Miller began formulating an idea for a tax filing software system that won him a patent last month.

The New York Times

But if you're still formulating an idea an hour or so before deadline, don't bother.

The Guardian

Ever since he first visited London as a California teenager, he had been formulating an idea of this life and buying things that might belong in it.

The New York Times - Travel

Short of giving up on democracy, this means formulating an idea – as mutually agreed as your trading bloc is wide – of what fair distribution looks like, which cannot be done without an idea of equality at its foundation.

The Guardian - Opinion

The two originally formulated an idea while spending time together on the set of The Office: "What if Jan came into the office and did a 'Women in the Workplace' seminar, and Michael got all jealous?" They presented their idea to executive producer Greg Daniels, who liked the idea.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "formulate an idea", consider the context. It's suitable for situations where a structured or well-defined idea is being developed. Combine it with brainstorming techniques for optimal results.

Common error

While "formulate an idea" is grammatically sound, avoid overusing it in informal contexts. Alternatives like "come up with an idea" or "think of an idea" may be more appropriate for casual conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formulate an idea" functions as a verb phrase that describes the action of creating or developing a concept or plan. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable in written English. It specifies the process of giving shape to something abstract.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "formulate an idea" is a grammatically sound and professionally usable expression for describing the creation or development of a concept. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts but leans towards neutral or professional settings. It is most commonly found in News & Media and Science. While perfectly valid, remember to consider your audience and choose more informal alternatives like "come up with an idea" for casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

develop a concept

Focuses on the development aspect of an idea, emphasizing growth and refinement.

conceive a notion

Highlights the mental creation of an idea, suggesting a sudden or insightful origin.

generate a plan

Emphasizes the practical outcome of idea formation, specifically focusing on a strategic plan.

devise a strategy

Similar to generating a plan, but implies a more detailed and strategic approach to the idea.

craft an outline

Focuses on structuring an idea, suggesting a process of organization and arrangement.

establish a thesis

Implies forming a main argument or point, typically in an academic or formal setting.

shape a vision

Suggests giving form and direction to an idea, often involving long-term goals or aspirations.

frame a thought

Highlights the act of putting an idea into words or a specific context, emphasizing articulation.

invent a concept

Emphasizes the originality and novelty of an idea, suggesting something entirely new.

mold a proposal

Implies refining and shaping an idea into a formal suggestion or plan.

FAQs

How can I use "formulate an idea" in a sentence?

You can use "formulate an idea" to describe the process of developing a plan or concept. For example, "The team needs to formulate an idea for the next marketing campaign."

What are some alternatives to "formulate an idea"?

Alternatives include "develop a concept", "conceive a notion", or "generate a plan". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "formulate an idea" or "develop an idea"?

Both "formulate an idea" and "develop an idea" are correct. "Formulate" suggests a more structured and deliberate process, while "develop" implies growth and refinement over time.

What does it mean to "formulate an idea" in business?

In a business context, to "formulate an idea" often means to create a detailed proposal or plan for a new product, service, or strategy. It involves defining the goals, resources, and steps required to bring the idea to fruition.