planted the idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "planted the idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the act of introducing or suggesting a thought or concept to someone, often subtly or indirectly. Example: "During our conversation, she planted the idea of starting a new project that intrigued me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Because in 1985 a movie planted the idea in our minds that today was the future.

The New Yorker

John Mitchell in his testimony planted the idea that there was a fundamental difference bet.

The New Yorker

In a dry and sneaky way, Kircher planted the idea that the Bible was wrong.

The New York Times - Arts

It was their kindness, Ms. Johnson said, that planted the idea of a medical career in her mind.

The New York Times

That experience planted the idea that I wanted to create a program to equip talented and motivated youth with support, training and job opportunities.

The New York Times

It planted the idea for "Big Night," which focuses on a beleaguered restaurant's preparations for a potentially lifesaving visit from a special customer.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Mr. Bush was trying to plant the idea today that Mr. Gore is not a man of his word.

The New York Times

Planting the idea that tax cuts are not an overarching solution to serious problems is a good place to start.

The New York Times

Thank those who have donated publicly to plant the idea in others' minds that they could give, too.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Brilliantly, the director Blanche McIntyre managed to plant the idea that each character would grow into another, living another compromised and mediocre life.

The Guardian

We set out to plant the idea in the daily discourse of our classmates, but, not being trendsetters, we found it tough sledding.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "planted the idea" when you want to convey a subtle or indirect introduction of a thought or concept into someone's mind. It implies a gradual influence rather than an immediate acceptance.

Common error

Avoid using "planted the idea" when the introduction of the concept was direct, forceful, or immediately accepted. Phrases like "introduced" or "stated" might be more accurate in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "planted the idea" functions as a verb phrase. It typically indicates the action of subtly introducing a thought or concept into someone's mind. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "planted the idea" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the subtle introduction of a thought or concept. As Ludwig AI states, it's a usable expression in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase suggests a gradual influence, making it distinct from more direct terms like "introduced". While its usage spans various contexts, it’s less frequent in formal academic or scientific writing. Alternatives like "sowed the idea" and "suggested the thought" offer nuanced variations suitable for different situations. It's important to consider the level of influence you're trying to convey when choosing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sowed the idea

Emphasizes the initial introduction of an idea, likening it to planting a seed.

instilled the thought

Suggests a more forceful or deliberate planting of the idea.

injected the concept

Implies a more direct and impactful introduction of the idea.

introduced the notion

A more formal way of saying planted the idea.

suggested the thought

A milder and less assertive way of introducing the idea.

sparked the idea

Focuses on the initial ignition or inspiration of an idea.

implanted the seed

A metaphorical expression conveying the initial introduction of an idea, emphasizing its potential for growth.

inspired the thought

Highlights the inspirational aspect of introducing an idea.

put forward the idea

A neutral way of introducing an idea for consideration.

proposed the concept

A more formal and direct way of suggesting an idea.

FAQs

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

You can use "planted the idea" to describe how a thought or suggestion was subtly introduced to someone's mind. For example, "The movie "planted the idea" in my head that I could travel the world."

What can I say instead of "planted the idea"?

You can use alternatives like "sowed the idea", "introduced the notion", or "suggested the thought" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "plant the idea"?

Yes, "plant the idea" is grammatically correct. The past tense, ""planted the idea"", indicates that the action of introducing the thought has already occurred.

What's the difference between "planted the idea" and "introduced the idea"?

"Planted the idea" suggests a more subtle and gradual introduction, whereas "introduced the idea" is more direct and straightforward.