precisely the idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "precisely the idea" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize that a particular thought or concept is exactly what you mean or intend. Example: "When I said we need to innovate, that was precisely the idea I was trying to convey."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

But that seems to have been precisely the idea.

The Economist

This is precisely the idea that lies at the heart of the Rind meta-analysis.

The New Yorker

It was a chilling testament to the power of a photo: precisely the idea that Hadjithomas and Joreige have been mining onscreen and in their art.

The New Yorker

This was precisely the idea laid out by the partnership in its 1987 prospectus, "New Life for a Midtown Business District".

The New York Times

That's precisely the idea, though: "Uh Huh Her" is full of songs that could be barbaric yawps or ironic poses, depending on how you hear them.

The New York Times - Arts

Or, more precisely, the idea of having eaten them, since in most instances he's trying not to think about what it is he's forcing down.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Rio made one specific contribution of potentially massive consequence when it comes precisely to the idea of citizenship, namely the Rio Dialogues.

The New York Times

Mr. Ferrell could not pinpoint more precisely where the idea for the movie came from, except to say it had been bouncing around his head for several years.

The New York Times

He argued that the fact that "there was no luxury in Batumi" was precisely why the idea of a Trump Tower was so smart.

The New Yorker

Or, more precisely, with the idea that animates the system: that you should pay executives according to their performance.Performance-related pay has been a relatively recent innovation in American boardrooms.

The Economist

Equally ironic too, perhaps, that those seeking to safeguard the maverick American's memory should appeal precisely to the idea that Fischer should be remembered for the brilliance of his chess, not for the tragic descent into paranoia, self-delusion, and anti-Semitism.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "precisely the idea" to confirm and emphasize an accurate understanding or intention. This phrase adds a layer of precision to your agreement.

Common error

Avoid using "precisely the idea" in contexts where a general agreement is sufficient. "Precisely" implies a specific and exact match, so ensure the context warrants this level of accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precisely the idea" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a statement or action, emphasizing that it aligns exactly with a previously mentioned concept or intention. As Ludwig AI indicates, this usage is grammatically correct and common.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

24%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "precisely the idea" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to convey strong agreement and confirm an exact understanding of a concept or intention. According to Ludwig AI, it’s suitable for various contexts, with common usage in news media, scientific writing, and formal business communication. While synonyms like "exactly the concept" and "that's the point" offer similar meanings, "precisely the idea" emphasizes accuracy and specific alignment. Be mindful of overusing the phrase or using it when a general agreement would suffice, as this could diminish its impact. As with any expression, context is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exactly the concept

Replaces 'precisely' with 'exactly', maintaining the emphasis on accuracy.

that's the point

A more concise way to express agreement with an idea.

that's the intention

Focuses on the intended outcome or goal of the idea.

that was the plan

Highlights that the idea was a pre-determined course of action.

that's just the ticket

An idiomatic expression indicating that the idea is perfect for the situation.

that's spot on

Informal way of saying that the idea is completely accurate.

that hits the nail on the head

Idiomatic way of saying that the idea is perfectly correct or accurate.

that's the crux of the matter

Emphasizes that the idea is the central or most important point.

that encapsulates the objective

Highlights that the idea summarizes the main aim.

that captures the essence

Focuses on how the idea perfectly conveys the main quality or nature of something.

FAQs

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

"Precisely the idea" is used to express complete agreement with a previously stated concept or plan. For instance, "When I suggested a cost-effective solution, that was "precisely the idea" I had in mind."

What phrases are similar to "precisely the idea"?

Similar phrases include "exactly the concept", "that's the point", or "that's the intention". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "precisely the idea"?

While grammatically correct, using "precisely the idea" might be inappropriate if the agreement is only general and not exact. Overusing it can also sound repetitive or pretentious.

What is the difference between "precisely the idea" and "just the idea"?

"Precisely the idea" implies exactness and specific agreement, while "just the idea" can suggest a more general or basic concept. "Precisely" adds a layer of emphasis on the accuracy of the understanding.