the sole idea

USAGE SUMMARY

"the sole idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the only idea or concept being discussed or expressed. For example, "The sole idea of the essay was to make a call to action."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Don't attend functions with the sole idea of making friends or meeting people.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It will also help to explain that this isn't meant to be a complicated process – it is simply about having clarity as what the business is doing now, in three years' time, in five years' time, etc. Avoid being the sole ideas person.

WikiHow

Whereas the two snipers' sole idea seemed to be collecting a $10 million cease-and-desist fee, Mr. Rudolph phoned in warnings of the Olympic bomb.

The New York Times

A document from 25 March contains her note that joining the uprising was her sole idea, and that she had hoped that such a moment would come her entire life.

Wikipedia

Indeed, Cubans endure nowadays the result of his doings as the sole person with ideas and possibility to carry them out during 46 years.

Huffington Post

The sole difference between an idea and an impression is the degree of liveliness or vivacity each possesses.

SEP

The sole author conceived the idea, carried out the analyses and wrote this manuscript.

BMC Public Health

This doesn't mean having the academics be the sole representatives of their ideas, but rather ensuring that politicians deliver a consistent narrative to the American people that is both intelligent and thoughtful.

Huffington Post

When you don't know where your next meal is coming from, whether you will have a roof over your head next month, or you rely on charity for winter shoes without holes in the soles, then the idea that the rich live differently from "the rest of us" takes on less significance than the possibility of life on Mars.

Huffington Post

(Britain was the sole country to reject the idea out of hand).

The New Yorker

He's even volunteered to be a stay-on-the-sofa husband and let me be the sole provider — I had no idea he was so progressive!

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the sole idea" to clearly emphasize that there is only one concept or thought being considered. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "the sole idea" when discussing multifaceted topics, as it can oversimplify the situation and dismiss other relevant factors. Instead, acknowledge contributing factors or alternative viewpoints.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the sole idea" functions as a determiner phrase specifying a single, unique concept. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in highlighting the exclusive nature of a thought or plan.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the sole idea" is used to emphasize the exclusivity of a concept or thought. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While not frequently used, when used correctly, adds clarity to your writing. Its primary function is to highlight singularity and prevent consideration of alternative viewpoints. Remember to ensure its accuracy when using it, especially when discussing nuanced topics. Consider alternatives such as "the only concept" or "the single thought" for similar emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the only concept

Replaces 'idea' with 'concept' for a more formal tone.

the single thought

Substitutes 'sole' with 'single' and 'idea' with 'thought' for emphasis on individual contemplation.

the exclusive notion

Uses 'exclusive' to highlight the unique nature of the idea and 'notion' as a more abstract alternative.

the solitary concept

Replaces 'sole' with 'solitary', emphasizing the isolated nature of the concept.

the primary focus

Shifts the focus to the central element rather than the idea itself.

the central theme

Highlights the main subject or topic being discussed.

the one and only idea

Adds emphasis to the uniqueness and exclusivity of the idea.

the singular concept

Similar to 'solitary concept' but slightly more formal.

the overriding principle

Emphasizes the dominant rule or belief guiding something.

the fundamental premise

Highlights the basic assumption or foundation of an argument.

FAQs

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

You can use "the sole idea" to emphasize the singularity of a concept. For instance, "The sole idea of the project was to reduce waste."

What are some alternatives to "the sole idea"?

Consider alternatives like "the only concept", "the single thought", or "the exclusive notion" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "the sole idea" in formal writing?

Yes, "the sole idea" is acceptable in formal writing, but ensure it accurately reflects the singularity of the concept. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or simplistic.

What's the difference between "the sole idea" and "a primary idea"?

"The sole idea" indicates there is only one concept, while "a primary idea" suggests it's the most important among multiple ideas.