something to that notion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "something to that notion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express that there is some truth or validity to a particular idea or concept. Example: "While I don't fully agree, I can see there's something to that notion that hard work leads to success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

There's something to that notion.

Forbes

There is something to that notion.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

This shows there is something to the notion that the poor "can't afford" nervous breakdowns — the milder kind, that is — since the reason the proportion of treated neuroses among the poor is only 10 per cent is that a neurotic can keep going, after a fashion.

The New Yorker

But all that being said, there is still clearly something to this notion that holding the phone in the lower left corner degrades signal quality.

TechCrunch

Perhaps there is something to the notion that a conservative candidate like Newt Gingrich can do more to motivate the Republican base to vote.

The New York Times

"I think there may be something to the notion that the more you have at the beginning, the faster you can draw down," said Mr. Wolfowitz, who was among those who criticized Gen. Eric K. Shinseki, the Army chief of staff, who suggested it could take "something on the order of several hundred thousand soldiers" to stabilize Iraq.

The New York Times

But I think there is something to the notion that more companies will just elect to stay private, control their governance, and go on their merry way.

TechCrunch

There's something to the notion that reducing conflict and lubricating social interaction with friendliness is natural and constructive.

Huffington Post

And there is probably something to the notion in some cases that increased productivity and margins provide companies with funds that allow them to expand their size and employment ranks.

TechCrunch

They sit with the serene and knowing looks of people who believe that they can and will have a deep spiritual experience today – that there's something to the notion of other worlds and beings beyond the comprehension of science, to the abdication of control and surrender to mysterious forces.

Vice

Or is there something to the notion a poem's prose that's in slow motion?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you use the phrase, be prepared to explain what specifically is valid about the notion. This demonstrates that your acknowledgment is genuine and not just a conversational filler.

Common error

Avoid using "something to that notion" repeatedly without elaborating. Overuse can make your writing sound noncommittal and vague. Always provide specific reasons why you find the notion partially valid.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something to that notion" functions as a qualifying statement, indicating partial agreement or acknowledgment of a particular idea. As Ludwig AI explains, it suggests there's some truth or validity, without full endorsement.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "something to that notion" is a phrase used to express partial agreement or acknowledgment of an idea. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates that there is some merit or validity to the idea, without necessarily fully endorsing it. Its usage is most common in news and media, but it is also found in science and formal business contexts. When using the phrase, it is important to provide context and explain what aspects of the notion you find valid. This ensures that your acknowledgment is genuine and avoids vague, noncommittal language. Related phrases include "there's some truth to that idea" and "there's merit to that thought", offering alternative ways to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there's some truth to that idea

Emphasizes the element of truth within the notion, suggesting partial agreement.

there's merit to that thought

Highlights the value or worth of the idea, implying it deserves consideration.

that idea holds some water

An idiomatic expression suggesting the idea has some validity or soundness.

there's something in what you say

Acknowledges the validity of someone's statement, often used in direct conversation.

i see your point

Indicates understanding and partial agreement with the stated viewpoint.

that has a ring of truth to it

Suggests the idea resonates as being true or accurate.

that argument has some weight

Highlights the importance or persuasiveness of the argument.

i concede that point

Formally acknowledges the validity of a specific point within an argument.

there may be something to it

Expresses uncertainty but suggests the possibility of validity.

that's worth considering

Indicates the idea warrants further thought or evaluation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "something to that notion" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "there is some merit to that thought", or "that idea holds some validity". These alternatives convey a similar meaning while maintaining a more professional tone.

What does it mean when someone says "there's "something to that""?

It indicates that the person partially agrees with or sees some truth in what has been said, without necessarily fully endorsing the idea. It's a way of acknowledging a point without complete agreement.

Is "something to that notion" the same as saying "I completely agree"?

No, "something to that notion" implies partial agreement or acknowledgment. It suggests the speaker sees some validity in the idea but may not fully endorse it. Complete agreement would be expressed with phrases like "I completely agree" or "I fully support that".

Can I use "something to that notion" in academic writing?

Yes, you can use "something to that notion" in academic writing, especially when analyzing different perspectives or arguments. However, ensure that you follow up with a clear explanation of what aspects of the notion you find valid and why. Clarity and specific evidence are key in academic contexts.