somewhere in the idea of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "somewhere in the idea of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a concept or notion that is not clearly defined but is related to a broader idea. Example: "Somewhere in the idea of freedom lies the balance between individual rights and societal responsibilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A strategic vision, too, lurks somewhere in the idea of an EAC.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

So to us, it is very possible that somewhere in government in 2013, the idea of charging motorists to use roads like the A47 was being discussed.

BBC

There is an inchoate sense that a key explanation lies somewhere in the idea that our economy is somehow different.

Forbes

Our queen was up there somewhere dancing – but the idea of her had already been internalised.

The Guardian - Books

Others caught on to the concept, and somewhere along the way, the idea of "modern Hungarian" was born.

The New York Times - Travel

CRIME, traffic, noise, graffiti no wonder that many people in Britain like the idea of living somewhere safe, fenced-off and privately guarded.

The Economist

That was back in May 2001, and the idea of ever fighting somewhere overseas was a foreign one.

Vice

The movie's costumes and locations suggest the idea of "somewhere in the past" without knocking themselves out to simulate details beyond the budget's means.

The New York Times

Somewhere between Mickey Mouse and Steve Jobs, the idea of art melded with technology seemed to rupture, separating two cultures.

Los Angeles Times

The Orthodox Christians have been somewhere in the middle: more open than the Catholics to the idea of  articulating Christianity in new languages, but still relatively cautious.

The Economist

Mayor Giuliano said he was confident that the city could find a suitable site for the center and that most residents seemed to accept the idea of building it somewhere in the city.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "somewhere in the idea of" to acknowledge that a concept is not fully formed or has aspects that are not immediately apparent. It's useful when exploring nuanced or abstract notions.

Common error

Avoid using "somewhere in the idea of" when the concept you're discussing is well-defined and understood. Choose a more direct phrase to avoid ambiguity and ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "somewhere in the idea of" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun. It is used to indicate that something is related to, connected to, or part of a broader concept or notion, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "somewhere in the idea of" serves as a useful prepositional phrase to indicate a connection between something and a broader, often less defined, concept. Ludwig AI affirms the phrase's correctness and usability, suggesting it's appropriate when discussing ideas that are not fully formed or immediately apparent. It's most frequently found in news and media, and while its register is generally neutral, you might consider more precise alternatives like "inherent in the notion of" for more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inherent in the notion of

Focuses on an essential or intrinsic part of the idea.

within the concept of

Emphasizes that something is contained or included in the idea.

linked to the concept of

Highlights that something is directly tied to a specific concept.

part of the thinking behind

Highlights that something is a component of the rationale or reasoning.

tied to the thought of

Indicates a close relationship to a specific thought or consideration.

a facet of the vision for

Suggests a specific aspect or element within a larger plan or aspiration.

associated with the framework of

Implies a connection to a structured set of ideas or guidelines.

related to the principle of

Indicates a connection to a fundamental rule or belief.

connected to the theory of

Links something to a set of ideas explaining a phenomenon.

in the realm of the concept of

Indicates that something exists within the scope or sphere of the concept.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "somewhere in the idea of" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives like "inherent in the notion of" or "within the concept of". These options offer a more precise and academic feel.

What's a simpler way to express "somewhere in the idea of"?

If you want a simpler expression, try "related to the principle of". It offers a direct and easily understandable way to connect something to a core concept.

When is it appropriate to use "somewhere in the idea of"?

It's appropriate when discussing a concept that's not clearly defined or has aspects that are not immediately obvious. It acknowledges the nuanced or abstract nature of the idea being explored. Avoid it when the concept is well-defined.

Is "somewhere in the idea of" interchangeable with "part of the idea of"?

While similar, "part of the idea of" suggests a distinct component, while "somewhere in the idea of" implies a more subtle or less defined aspect. Choose based on whether you want to emphasize a specific element or a general relationship to the concept.