preconceived idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preconceived idea" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to an idea or opinion that someone had before they had all the available information or experience on a particular topic. Examples: 1. He entered the debate with a preconceived idea that he was right, but after listening to the other arguments, he changed his mind. 2. Many people have a preconceived idea that all teenagers are lazy and rebellious, but my experience with my students has proven otherwise. 3. The article challenged my preconceived ideas about climate change and made me rethink my stance. 4. The artist wanted to create a sculpture that would challenge people's preconceived ideas of beauty and perfection. 5. It's important to approach a new concept or situation with an open mind, without any preconceived ideas that could limit our understanding.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That's clearly a preconceived idea.

The Guardian - Sport

"I have no preconceived idea.

The New York Times - Sports

"That is a preconceived idea," he said.

The New York Times

I don't have any preconceived idea".

The New Yorker

I didn't have a preconceived idea.

The New York Times

If they do, they may already have a preconceived idea.

The New York Times

But I never go out with a preconceived idea.

The New York Times - Style

"People have this preconceived idea of what funny is.

The Guardian

They had the preconceived idea that Iraqi society by its nature was divided along sectarian lines.

The New York Times

Remarkably, given her time and place, she seems to have had no preconceived idea of how she would live.

The Guardian - Books

There is probably not a single child in the world without a preconceived idea of Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, examine your assumptions. Ensure you're not relying on a "preconceived idea" that might bias your analysis or argument. Acknowledge and address potential biases to strengthen your credibility.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "preconceived idea" as a universally accepted truth. Always provide evidence or context to support your claims, acknowledging that others may hold different perspectives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preconceived idea" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It serves to identify a specific type of thought or belief held prior to having complete information. As Ludwig AI explains, it is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

19%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "preconceived idea" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe a notion formed before adequate evidence. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts. Recognizing and challenging these "preconceived idea" is crucial for objective analysis and effective communication. Related phrases, such as "preconceived notion" or "preconception", offer subtle variations in meaning. By understanding the nuances of this phrase and actively avoiding its pitfalls, writers can enhance the clarity, accuracy, and persuasiveness of their work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preconception

A synonym for "preconceived idea", simply using a different noun form.

preconceived notion

Replaces "idea" with "notion", implying a slightly less formal or concrete thought.

preconceived belief

Substitutes "idea" with "belief", suggesting a stronger conviction or faith in the concept.

preformed opinion

Replaces "idea" with "opinion", focusing on a judgment or viewpoint already established.

prejudgment

A more direct and concise term implying a judgment made before having all the facts.

prior assumption

Highlights the act of assuming something beforehand, implying less certainty than a belief.

preset view

Emphasizes that the view or perspective has been established or set in advance.

established perspective

Focuses on an already formed viewpoint or way of seeing things.

fixed mindset

Indicates a rigid way of thinking that is resistant to new information or experiences.

initial impression

Refers to the first thought or feeling about something, which may not be fully informed.

FAQs

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

You can use "preconceived idea" to describe an opinion or belief formed before having enough information or experience. For example, "Many people enter the field of science with a "preconceived idea" about the role of experimentation".

What's a good substitute for "preconceived idea"?

Depending on the context, you could use synonyms such as "preconceived notion", "preconception", or "preformed opinion".

What is the difference between "preconceived idea" and "assumption"?

While both involve beliefs formed in advance, a "preconceived idea" often implies a more deeply rooted or resistant belief, while an "assumption" can be a more tentative starting point that is open to change.

Is it always negative to have a "preconceived idea"?

Not necessarily. While "preconceived idea" often implies bias, it can also refer to a hypothesis or working theory that guides initial exploration, as long as one remains open to revising it based on new evidence. However, be careful of the potential for "confirmation bias".