in idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in idea" is not commonly used in written English and may be considered awkward or incorrect.
It can be used when discussing a concept or notion in a theoretical context, but it is better to use more standard expressions. Example: "In idea, the project aims to improve community engagement, but practical implementation may differ."

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

This is not new in idea; indeed, it was already accepted in rational dynamics.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The inclusion of that anecdote in "Idea Man" is of course a deliberate choice.

The New York Times - Books

This is a stunning show, almost overpoweringly various in idea, theme and medium.

The Guardian - Arts

In 2005, AT&T sold a large stake in Idea Cellular, now one of India's largest mobile companies, to its partners in that venture.

The New York Times

The Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit affirmed, finding that "Congress intended to and did authorize the reimbursement of expert fees in IDEA actions".

Encyclopedia Britannica

MS. EL-AMIN: Once a child has been identified as needing resources the parents, if willing, should receive a basic course in IDEA.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Union leaders vigorously oppose the opt-in idea.

The New York Times

The bail-in idea deserves a strong push.

The New York Times

Germany, Finland and the IMF had supported the bail-in idea.

The Guardian - Business

"Moreover, I do not and never have believed that being a trans woman manifests an 'opt-in" idea of what it is to be a woman.

Independent

The check-in idea got its start in 2004, when Foursquare's predecessor, a service called Dodgeball, started to let people tell their friends where they were with a text-message blast.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in idea", consider if a more common alternative like "conceptually" or "in theory" might improve clarity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "in idea" when a simpler preposition like "in" followed by a more specific noun (e.g., "in concept", "in design") would be more direct and clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in idea" primarily functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying the perspective or context from which a statement is being made. Ludwig provides examples showing its use to indicate that something is being considered from a conceptual or theoretical viewpoint.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in idea" functions as an adverbial modifier, primarily used to qualify statements from a conceptual or theoretical perspective. While grammatically acceptable, Ludwig's analysis suggests that it's less common than alternatives like ""conceptually"" or ""in theory"", and can sometimes sound awkward. The phrase appears most frequently in news media, scientific texts, and encyclopedias, indicating a neutral to formal register. It is crucial to consider if a more direct phrase might enhance clarity, especially in less formal writing contexts. According to Ludwig AI, it's best to use "in idea" when focusing solely on the concept itself.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conceptually

Focuses on the theoretical aspect rather than practical application.

in theory

Emphasizes the difference between what is planned and what may happen in reality.

in principle

Highlights a basic truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of belief or behavior.

abstractly

Indicates a focus on general ideas rather than concrete realities.

theoretically speaking

Introduces a statement that is based on theory rather than practical experience.

from a conceptual standpoint

Specifies that the discussion is centered on the idea rather than its execution.

as a general idea

Refers to a broad understanding without specific details.

in its essence

Focuses on the most important or characteristic aspect of something.

at a high level

Describes something broadly, without getting into specific details.

on a purely intellectual level

Emphasizes that the consideration is based solely on thought and reasoning.

FAQs

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

You can use "in idea" to describe something from a conceptual or theoretical perspective. For instance, "In idea, the plan seems feasible, but its execution may present challenges."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "in idea"?

Some alternatives include "conceptually", "in theory", or "in principle". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "in idea" instead of "in theory"?

"In idea" emphasizes the conceptual framework, while ""in theory"" often implies a contrast with practical application. Use "in idea" when focusing solely on the concept itself.

Is the phrase "in idea" grammatically correct?

The phrase "in idea" is grammatically acceptable, though it's less common than alternatives and can sometimes sound awkward. Using a more direct phrase often improves clarity.