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
formulated the concept
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "formulated the concept" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the development or creation of an idea or theory. Example: "The researchers formulated the concept of sustainable development to address environmental concerns."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Encyclopedias
News & Media
Alternative expressions(2)
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
22 human-written examples
Botanist Henry Chandler Cowles formulated the concept of ecological succession after studying the dunes in the 1890s.
Encyclopedias
The young critics at Cahiers du Cinéma who formulated the concept of the director as author were even called the Hitchcocko-Hawksians.
News & Media
In August, 1966, while waiting outside a bus terminal in Manhattan, Baer formulated the concept of an interactive device that could be plugged into a standard television set.
News & Media
As an associate justice, he formulated the concept of the "incorporation" of territories that the United States had acquired in 1898 by the Spanish-American War.
Encyclopedias
We may fear they are coming to do battle when in reality they have not even formulated the concept of war.
News & Media
Under his leadership the bank formulated the concept of "sustainable development," which attempted to reconcile economic growth and environmental protection in developing countries.
Encyclopedias
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
36 human-written examples
Erikson [ 1] formulated the concepts of normal ego identity, identity crisis, and identity diffusion as the crucial characteristics of normal and pathological personality development.
Ms. Brock did not formulate the concept of moral injury, which is attributed to the clinical psychiatrist Jonathan Shay.
News & Media
This was about the time when I was trying to formulate the concept for Chic, and I would be less than honest if I tried to say that record didn't have a big influence on me.
News & Media
His lyrical portraits raised the art of painting miniature portraiture (called limning in Elizabethan England) to its highest point of development and did much to formulate the concept of portraiture there during the late 16th and early 17th centuries.
Encyclopedias
This article formulates the concept of a linear error-block code and derives basic results for this kind of code by direct analogy to the classical case.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "formulated the concept" to lend formality to your written content, since this phrase highlights creation of new thought, idea or theory in a more formal setting.
Common error
Avoid using "formulated the concept" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "came up with the idea" or "developed the concept" to maintain a natural tone.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "formulated the concept" functions as a verbal phrase, typically followed by an "of" phrase that specifies the concept that was created or developed. Ludwig indicates its correct usage.
Frequent in
Science
40%
Encyclopedias
30%
News & Media
20%
Less common in
Wiki
10%
Formal & Business
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "formulated the concept" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to indicate the creation or development of an idea. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for formal and scientific contexts. While not exceedingly common, it appears frequently in encyclopedias, science articles, and news media. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly define the concept being formulated and consider simpler alternatives like "developed the idea" for less formal situations. The key is to maintain clarity and precision in communicating the origin of the idea.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
developed the idea
Focuses on the progression of an idea, implying less formality than "concept".
originated the notion
Highlights the starting point of an idea, emphasizing its initial creation.
established the principle
Suggests a more structured and fundamental idea than a general "concept".
conceived the plan
Implies a more practical and actionable idea, shifting from abstract thinking.
devised the scheme
Similar to 'conceived the plan' but can sometimes imply a more intricate or strategic approach.
pioneered the thought
Emphasizes innovation and being the first to introduce a particular idea.
created the theory
Emphasizes a well-substantiated and structured idea, moving beyond a simple "concept".
advanced the paradigm
Focuses on progressing an established model or way of thinking.
introduced the framework
Highlights the structural aspect of a concept, implying an organized approach.
invented the method
Implies the creation of a practical technique or process, rather than an abstract concept.
FAQs
How can I use "formulated the concept" in a sentence?
You can use "formulated the concept" to describe the origin of an idea, for example: "Botanist Henry Chandler Cowles "formulated the concept" of ecological succession."
What are some alternatives to "formulated the concept"?
Alternatives include "developed the idea", "originated the notion", or "established the principle". The best choice depends on the specific context.
Is "formulated the concept" too formal for general use?
While grammatically correct, "formulated the concept" leans towards formal writing. Consider alternatives like "came up with the idea" for more casual contexts.
What's the difference between "formulated the concept" and "developed the concept"?
"Formulated the concept" often implies a more precise and deliberate creation of an idea, whereas "developed the concept" suggests a gradual evolution or refinement of an existing idea.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested