this idea

USAGE SUMMARY

"this idea" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to an idea that has been previously mentioned or implied. For example, "I'm not sure if this idea is going to work, but I think it's worth a try."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Microsoft disputes this idea.

The New York Times - Tech

Negroponte dismissed this idea.

The New Yorker

Will this idea work?

The New York Times

Kohut ridiculed this idea.

The New Yorker

This idea has promise.

The Economist

Anything to this idea?

The New Yorker

This idea suggests another.

The New Yorker

This idea was rejected.

The New Yorker

This idea is nuts".

The Economist

What inspired this idea?

The New York Times

I love this idea.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this idea" to clearly refer back to a specific concept you've already introduced in your writing. This helps maintain clarity and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "this idea" without a clear antecedent. Make sure the reader can easily identify the specific idea you're referring to; otherwise, rephrase for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this idea" functions as a demonstrative phrase, specifically pointing to a concept or thought that has been previously mentioned or is currently under discussion. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is grammatically sound and commonly employed across diverse writing contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this idea" is a demonstrative phrase used to refer back to a previously mentioned concept, ensuring clarity and coherence in writing and speech. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It appears frequently in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, making it suitable for a broad range of communication settings. While common, be sure to maintain a clear reference to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "that notion" and "the aforementioned concept", depending on the context and level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that notion

Slightly more detached, implies a degree of skepticism or distance.

the concept in question

Neutral, drawing specific attention to a particular idea.

the aforementioned concept

More formal, explicitly referencing a concept previously introduced.

that line of thinking

Highlights the reasoning process and the direction of thought.

the point being made

Focuses on the act of communication and the central argument.

the present proposal

Refers to a suggestion or plan that is currently under consideration.

the foregoing suggestion

Emphasizes the idea's prior presentation within the discourse.

the discussed solution

Highlights the problem-solving aspect and the collaborative nature.

said theory

Emphasizes its formal status and possible earlier discussion.

the principle outlined

Suggests an organized and structured presentation of the idea.

FAQs

How can I use "this idea" in a sentence?

Use "this idea" to refer back to a concept already introduced. For example: "We need to reduce costs. "This idea" requires further discussion."

What are some alternatives to "this idea"?

You can use phrases like "that notion", "the aforementioned concept", or "the point being made" depending on the context.

Is it okay to start a sentence with "this idea"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "this idea", especially when it provides a clear transition from the previous sentence or paragraph.

How does "this idea" differ from "that idea"?

"This idea" usually refers to something closer in context or time, while "that idea" might refer to something more distant or previously dismissed.