strange notion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strange notion" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an unusual or peculiar idea or belief that someone holds. Example: "She had a strange notion that the world would end next week, despite all evidence to the contrary."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

And the strange notion of a national ban on smoking?

The New York Times

It may seem a strange notion, but there is something in it.

The Economist

Then there's the strange notion of bombing countries into a sense of responsibility.

The Guardian - Music

I do stop — for some strange notion of being "more normal," taking things easy.

The New Yorker

It's a strange notion, the idea that a pitcher is credited with negative runs.

The New York Times

"He's got this strange notion that they can see back at you," Maria Moon, one of his staffers, explained.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

It's the kind of music that gives rise to strange notions.

The Guardian - Music

Sergio Fiorentino (Appian APR 5558) would never have wanted to interrupt his golden singing line in that way, but he had his own marvelous strange notions.

The New York Times

The notion that therapy could weaken the testimony of a witness and undermine the conviction of a sexual predator, as was claimed in the Chetham trial last week, sits alongside some strange notions of just what kind of activity therapy is.

The Guardian - Opinion

The film is the story of two musically talented sisters, the celebrated one's reaction to fame, her strange notions about husband-sharing and the illness that took her life - Saturday at 9 45 p.m. and Saturday/Early Sunday at 3 45 am.m. on IFC.

The New York Times

A relative testified that he "had a peculiar temper owing to some strange notions he had formed in his head"; yet in a letter to his brother written from prison, MacLeod was capable of writing this: "What can I say to you but I have a low eye and a trembling heart and a low hope that the Lord have mercy on me, a poor cursed man".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing the phrase "strange notion", follow it with a clarifying statement or example. This provides context and prevents misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "strange notion" excessively in academic or formal writing, as it can sound informal. Opt for more precise and nuanced alternatives like "unconventional hypothesis" or "novel concept" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strange notion" functions as a noun phrase, where "strange" modifies the noun "notion". It describes an idea, concept, or belief that is unusual, peculiar, or unconventional. According to Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "strange notion" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression used to describe an unusual or peculiar idea. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's prevalent in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. While it can be used across various writing styles, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives in academic settings to maintain a professional tone. When employing this phrase, providing context is crucial to prevent misinterpretations. Its synonyms include "odd idea" and "peculiar concept".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

odd idea

Focuses on the peculiarity or unusual nature of the idea.

peculiar concept

Emphasizes the distinctiveness and possible unusualness of the concept.

bizarre belief

Highlights the strangeness and unconventionality of the belief.

uncommon thought

Stresses the infrequency and rarity of the thought.

curious idea

Implies that the idea is intriguing and worthy of further investigation due to its strangeness.

unconventional concept

Emphasizes the departure from established norms and standards.

eccentric view

Suggests the view is outside the norm and possibly idiosyncratic.

far-fetched idea

Implies the idea is unlikely or unrealistic.

absurd concept

Highlights the illogical or unreasonable nature of the concept.

implausible theory

Underscores the lack of credibility or believability of the theory.

FAQs

How can I replace the phrase "strange notion" in my writing?

You can replace "strange notion" with synonyms like "odd idea", "peculiar concept", or "uncommon thought", depending on the context and desired nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "strange notion" in formal academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "strange notion" might be perceived as informal for academic writing. Consider using more formal alternatives such as "unconventional hypothesis" or "novel concept" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "strange notion" and "bizarre belief"?

"Strange notion" refers to an unusual or peculiar idea that might not be fully formed or accepted, while "bizarre belief" implies a more firmly held, extremely odd conviction. The latter suggests a greater degree of peculiarity and potential irrationality.

How do I use "strange notion" effectively in a sentence?

To use "strange notion" effectively, introduce the idea clearly and provide context. For example: "He had a "strange notion" that aliens were controlling world leaders, which he detailed in his online blog."