getting a real idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getting a real idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of understanding or grasping a concept or situation more clearly. Example: "After reviewing the data and discussing with the team, I feel like I'm getting a real idea of the project's scope."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I think we know where they stand, we know exactly what they are experiencing, but it is about actually for the first time getting a real idea of what they want us to do, and what they are prepared to do".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

You get a real idea of the geography of the city from Killakee.

The Guardian - Travel

"I think every student should go aboard the replica to get a real idea of what it was like".

The New York Times

Newman had been friends with Case for a while in Vancouver before he first got a real idea of her singing voice.

The New York Times - Magazine

-- before figuring out that New York, if you wanted to get a real idea of it, was better off seen from a distance than close up.

The New York Times

We agreed on a four day a week deal on minimum wage in which we also ensure interns get experience in the Liberal Democrat Leader's Office and in the party's Media Office, to get a real idea of Westminster life.

The Guardian

But today's scoop from French blog Frandroid marks the first time we get a real idea of its size, as the latest leaked photos show the Galaxy Note 8.0 next to the Galaxy Note 2. Context is a beautiful thing.

TechCrunch

I get a real idea of how prehensile a prehensile tail can be when she wraps it round my neck.

HuffPost

I asked David a few questions about Acid Nerve's new game, to get a real idea of what to expect when Telepaint! comes out on iOS in, he says, "a matter of weeks".

Vice

There are not many people in positions of influence in the art world who have the dedication to making a point to go out and see everything they can, and get a real idea of what is going on out there.

Huffington Post

You'll get a real idea if there are any alterations needed.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "getting a real idea", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the subject is gaining an understanding of. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "getting a real idea" without specifying what the "idea" pertains to. General usage can be confusing. For example, instead of saying "I'm getting a real idea," specify "I'm getting a real idea of the project scope."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "getting a real idea" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the process of comprehension or understanding. It often serves as an idiomatic expression to describe the initial stages of grasping a concept, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "getting a real idea" is a common expression used to describe the process of developing comprehension or insight. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, though it tends toward neutral or slightly informal registers. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the subject of the understanding. While alternatives like "gaining a true understanding" or "forming a clear picture" may suit more formal environments, "getting a real idea" remains a versatile and widely recognized phrase for expressing the development of understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaining a true understanding

Emphasizes the achievement of understanding rather than the process.

forming a clear picture

Focuses on visualizing or conceptualizing something distinctly.

developing a solid grasp

Highlights the firmness and reliability of the understanding.

obtaining a genuine sense

Stresses the authenticity and directness of the understanding.

acquiring a concrete notion

Indicates the tangible and specific nature of the idea.

achieving a realistic perspective

Emphasizes the accuracy and practicality of the viewpoint gained.

cultivating an accurate impression

Suggests a gradual and careful development of an impression.

getting a feel for

Focuses on intuitive understanding through experience.

grasping the essence

Implies understanding the core or fundamental nature of something.

recognizing the true nature

Highlights the act of identifying the actual characteristics of something.

FAQs

What does "getting a real idea" mean?

The phrase "getting a real idea" means you are beginning to understand something more clearly and accurately. It implies moving beyond superficial knowledge to a more substantial grasp of a concept or situation.

How can I use "getting a real idea" in a sentence?

You can use it like this: "After the meeting, I started /s/getting+a+real+idea of the challenges ahead."

What are some alternatives to "getting a real idea"?

Alternatives include "gaining a true understanding", "forming a clear picture", or "developing a solid grasp", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "getting a real idea" formal or informal?

The phrase "getting a real idea" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "acquiring a concrete notion" for increased precision.