think of an idea

USAGE SUMMARY

"think of an idea" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it whenever you have to come up with a suggestion or a solution. For example, "We need to find a way to solve this problem-- let's each take a few minutes to think of an idea and come back together to discuss them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

You should think of an idea and apply.

The Guardian

"You can think of an idea, throw five friends into the scanner overnight and write up your results the next day.

The New York Times - Health

I don't know of many more creative things to do than think of an idea in the morning and put [it] on TV in the evening".

The Guardian

-- Matt Cutugno "This is such a terrible pricing system... only people who don't use the subways and buses could think of an idea like this".

The New York Times

You can think of an idea in the morning, do it in the evening and never do it again if it doesn't work".

The Guardian

He is immensely likable and modest as he explains how he at first said no to the Prodigy because he couldn't think of an idea.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

Another told us that he once thought of an idea for a melody just as he was falling asleep, but then couldn't remember when he woke up.

The New Yorker

As Kevin and Julia tell it, Michael Arrington asked them one day what they thought of an idea he had for a tech conference.

TechCrunch

Then a few days later, I had a phone call from the same Alan Boyd, and he said: "I've thought of an idea how to pass it by the IBA.

BBC

We find ourselves not remembering even who thought of an idea or we'll think of it at the same time.

Huffington Post

But then she saw Lauer's December interview with Adele and she thought of an idea too good to pass up.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To foster innovation, allocate dedicated time for team members to "think of an idea" that could improve existing processes.

Common error

Don't prematurely dismiss ideas. Allow time for incubation after you "think of an idea" before immediately evaluating its feasibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "think of an idea" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating the act of generating or conceiving a new concept. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is perfectly acceptable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "think of an idea" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to prompt or encourage the creation of new concepts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, ranging from casual conversations to professional settings. While primarily found in News & Media and Wiki sources, the phrase maintains a neutral tone and serves as a direct call to brainstorming and problem-solving. To enhance creativity, consider exploring various techniques like mind mapping or freewriting. If needing a more formal alternative, phrases such as "formulate a plan" or "conceive a notion" might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

generate a concept

Focuses on the creation aspect of an idea.

invent a concept

Stresses the novelty and originality of the idea.

conceive a notion

Highlights the mental process of forming an idea.

develop a thought

Highlights the process of elaboration on an initial idea.

originate a thought

Highlights the beginning or source of the idea.

formulate a plan

Emphasizes the structured and actionable nature of the idea.

devise a scheme

Suggests a strategic and often intricate idea.

come up with a suggestion

Specifically refers to proposing an idea.

brainstorm a solution

Implies a collaborative effort to generate ideas.

imagine a possibility

Focuses on envisioning a potential idea.

FAQs

How can I use "think of an idea" in a sentence?

You can use "think of an idea" when you need to generate a new concept or solution. For example, "Let's take a moment to "think of an idea" for our next marketing campaign."

What is a more formal alternative to "think of an idea"?

In more formal settings, you could use phrases like "formulate a plan" or "conceive a notion" to convey a similar meaning with a more sophisticated tone.

Is it better to say "think of an idea" or "come up with an idea"?

Both "think of an idea" and "come up with an idea" are correct and widely used. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific context. "Come up with an idea" may imply a slightly more active or sudden generation of an idea.

What are some creative ways to "think of an idea"?

To encourage creative thinking, try techniques like brainstorming, mind mapping, or freewriting to help you "think of an idea". Consider exploring unconventional perspectives to spark innovation.