pernicious idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pernicious idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an idea that is harmful or destructive, often in a subtle or gradual way. Example: "The pernicious idea that success is solely determined by wealth can lead to a toxic culture of competition and envy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The paradox of thrift has been a pernicious idea.

The New York Times

Given the pernicious idea that the vote to leave was "overwhelming", Brexit means Brexit.

The Guardian - Opinion

This pernicious idea, of course, came to full fruition during the genocide.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is time too, to break free from the politics of "community", the pernicious idea that there is this blob of homogeneity.

Independent

It is a pernicious idea precisely because once you believe in it, you find yourself forced to match all contemporary activity against it.

The Guardian - Arts

The latest pernicious idea, pushed by Newt Gingrich, Jeb Bush and several members of Congress, would allow the states to declare bankruptcy, for the principal purpose of tearing up union contracts and negating pension obligations.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

This includes the most pernicious ideas and beliefs.

The Guardian - Books

"I worry that such a description subtly plays into pernicious ideas about the Old Testament as burdensome and the New Testament as freeing.

The New York Times

"Clearly, if books can educate, enlighten and inspire," the man wrote, "they can also corrupt by glamorizing and encouraging pernicious ideas and behavior: Ideas do have consequences".

The New Yorker

One of the most pernicious ideas in the world of education right now is that the sole function of school is to train students for the workplace.

The New Yorker

The songs insisted that the Okayplayers' competition came not from one another but from phony, bandwagon-jumping gangsters and pernicious ideas.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "pernicious idea", ensure that the context clearly demonstrates the harmful and subtle or gradual nature of the idea. Provide specific examples of its negative consequences to strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "pernicious idea" when a simpler term like "bad idea" suffices. The word "pernicious" implies a subtle and gradual harm, so reserve it for situations where this nuance is important.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pernicious idea" functions as a noun phrase, where "pernicious" acts as a pre-modifying adjective, describing the nature of the "idea". This construction serves to highlight that the idea in question is harmful or destructive in a subtle, gradual way. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

13%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pernicious idea" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe a concept that is subtly harmful or destructive. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It is most frequently found in news and media, with a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly demonstrates the subtle and gradual harm it causes. Alternatives like "harmful notion" or "destructive belief" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoid overusing the phrase when a simpler alternative would suffice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

harmful notion

Focuses on the damaging aspect of the idea, using a more common word.

destructive belief

Emphasizes the ruinous potential of the belief.

detrimental concept

Highlights the negative impact the concept has.

damaging ideology

Implies a systematic and harmful set of beliefs.

insidious thought

Suggests a subtle and treacherous harmfulness.

baneful concept

A more formal and archaic way to express a harmful idea.

toxic mindset

Focuses on the poisonous and damaging effect on one's thinking.

corrosive theory

Highlights the gradual and destructive effect of a theory.

vicious assumption

Underscores the harmful and unfounded nature of the assumption.

ruinous principle

Emphasizes the devastating consequences of the principle.

FAQs

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

You can use "pernicious idea" to describe a belief or concept that is subtly harmful or destructive. For example: "The "pernicious idea" that wealth equals happiness can lead to dissatisfaction and a lack of fulfillment."

What are some alternatives to "pernicious idea"?

Alternatives include "harmful notion", "destructive belief", or "detrimental concept". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

What makes an idea "pernicious"?

A "pernicious" idea is one that causes harm in a subtle or gradual way. It might not be immediately obvious that the idea is damaging, but over time, it can have significant negative consequences. This is different from an idea that is simply bad or wrong.

Is "pernicious idea" a formal or informal phrase?

"Pernicious idea" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though its use might be more common in formal writing or speech due to the slightly elevated vocabulary. It's appropriate for academic papers, news articles, and professional communications.