on the idea

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to any idea someone might have. For example, "I have been reflecting on the idea of starting my own business for a few weeks now."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

No one picks up on the idea.

Forbes

Rastafarian centers on the idea of oneness with everyone.

WikiHow

Bitcoinistas are split on the idea.

The Economist

Other companies picked up on the idea.

The New York Times - Tech

Wie was not keen on the idea.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr Navalny jumped on the idea.

The Economist

Germany is understandably cool on the idea.

The Economist

Some politicians are keen on the idea.

The Economist

He was not sold on the idea.

The New York Times

Mr Scott was lukewarm on the idea.

The Economist

McKibben seized on the idea.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the idea" to indicate a focus or dependence on a specific concept, plan, or thought. For instance, "The project is based on the idea of sustainable development."

Common error

Ensure the "idea" you refer to is clearly defined or previously mentioned in the context. Avoid using "on the idea" without specifying what the idea entails, as this can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the idea" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, noun, or clause. It indicates a basis, focus, or dependence on a particular concept or thought, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

23%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on the idea" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate that something is based, focused, or dependent on a specific concept. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, especially in News & Media and Science. While widely accepted, it's crucial to ensure the "idea" is clear to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "regarding the concept" or "concerning the notion" can provide similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Therefore, understanding its function and purpose allows for its proper and effective use in writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regarding the concept

Replaces 'idea' with 'concept', focusing on the general notion being discussed.

concerning the notion

Substitutes 'idea' with 'notion', highlighting a particular belief or understanding.

about the plan

Replaces 'idea' with 'plan', emphasizing a specific proposal for action.

with respect to the thought

Uses 'thought' instead of 'idea', offering a more reflective or considerate tone.

in relation to the concept

Emphasizes the connection or association to a concept, instead of focusing on the idea itself.

concerning the proposition

Uses 'proposition' to refer to a specific suggestion or argument, lending a more formal tone.

pertaining to the subject

Shifts the focus to the broader subject matter rather than the specific idea.

with reference to the theory

Replaces 'idea' with 'theory', suggesting a more structured or academic framework.

regarding the viewpoint

Focuses on a specific perspective or opinion rather than the general idea.

in connection with the scheme

Suggests a planned arrangement or program, differing from a simple idea.

FAQs

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

You can use "on the idea" to show that something is based or dependent on a specific concept. For example, "The new strategy is predicated "on the idea" that customer satisfaction drives sales."

What are some alternatives to "on the idea"?

Alternatives include phrases like "regarding the concept", "concerning the notion", or "with respect to the thought". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. Consider also other options like "about the plan", "in relation to the concept", "regarding the viewpoint".

Is it better to say "based on the idea" or "on the idea"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "based on the idea" is more explicit and often preferred for clarity. "On the idea" implies a direct reliance or focus, while "based on the idea" specifies a foundation or origin.

What's the difference between "on the idea" and "about the idea"?

"On the idea" suggests that something is directly influenced or dependent upon the idea. "About the idea" implies a discussion or information pertaining to the idea. Use "on the idea" when something's existence relies on it, and "about the idea" when something is merely related to it.