invoke the concept of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "invoke the concept of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to refer to or bring attention to a specific idea or theory in a discussion or argument. Example: "In her essay, she chose to invoke the concept of existentialism to explore the themes of freedom and choice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Philosophers and religious leaders invoke the concept of evil.

The New York Times - Books

Lawyers want to invoke the concept of "successor liability" on the new company.

The New York Times

An extreme climate is forcing politicians to invoke the concept of right and wrong.

The Guardian

So while state officials invoke the concept of regionalism to talk about reducing taxes, they tread lightly.

The New York Times

People who make such claims usually invoke the concept of neuroplasticity, a term used to describe how the brain's structure and function can change in response to experience.

The Guardian

It's a well-worn theme that Dastgir tweaks by having her characters invoke the concept of family manipulatively, in pursuit of selfish ends.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

They invoke the concepts of 'nodality' (which relates to the use of information), 'authority' (which relates to the use of laws), 'treasure' (which relates to the use of financial means and organization (which relates to the use of of physical means).

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

Stiglitz often invokes the concept of negative externalities: the costs that some individuals, firms or nations impose on others.

The New York Times

He was also invoking the concept of public service, which, in Washington these days, is routinely subjugated to partisan advantage.

The New Yorker

In its attempts to define the "product" I.E. [Internet Explorer], the department consistently invokes the concept of "browser functionality"...

The New York Times

Often, invoking the concept of friction is a useful way to obscure some larger, less savory goal.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that you fully understand the concept you are invoking. Misapplication can weaken your argument and undermine your credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "invoke the concept of" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "refer to" or "mention" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "invoke the concept of" functions as a verb phrase used to formally introduce or refer to a specific idea or theory. It sets a tone of academic or professional discussion, as validated by Ludwig AI. Examples from Ludwig show its use across diverse topics.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

31%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "invoke the concept of" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, with numerous real-world examples illustrating its application across diverse contexts. It functions primarily to formally introduce or reference established theories or ideas in academic, scientific, and professional writing. While versatile, it is best suited for formal registers and should be avoided in casual conversation. Related phrases include "reference the idea of" and "call upon the notion of". Common errors involve overuse in informal settings. Remember, using this phrase appropriately can add authority and credibility to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reference the idea of

This alternative uses simpler language while retaining the core meaning of referring to a specific idea.

call upon the notion of

This option provides a slightly more formal tone, emphasizing the act of drawing upon an established idea.

make reference to the concept of

This alternative is more verbose, but maintains the same level of formality.

draw on the theory of

This alternative emphasizes the use of a theoretical framework.

allude to the principle of

This option introduces a subtle indirectness, suggesting a less explicit reference.

cite the idea of

This focuses on directly mentioning a specific idea or concept, often with attribution.

appeal to the concept of

This suggests using a concept to support an argument or position.

make use of the concept of

This suggests a practical application or implementation of a specific idea.

introduce the concept of

This option focuses on the initial presentation or explanation of an idea.

bring up the concept of

This suggests casually mentioning or raising a specific idea in discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "invoke the concept of" in a sentence?

You can use "invoke the concept of" to formally introduce or reference established theories or ideas. For example, "The author "invokes the concept of" cognitive dissonance to explain the character's conflicting actions".

What are some alternatives to "invoke the concept of"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "reference the idea of", "call upon the notion of", or "make reference to the concept of".

When is it appropriate to use "invoke the concept of" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "invoke the concept of" in academic, scientific, or professional writing where you need to formally introduce or discuss established theories or ideas. Avoid using it in casual or informal contexts.

What does it mean to "invoke the concept of" something?

To "invoke the concept of" something means to refer to or bring attention to a specific idea, theory, or principle, often in order to explain or support an argument or analysis.