unconventional idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unconventional idea" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a concept or thought that deviates from traditional or accepted norms. For example, "Her unconventional idea for the project surprised everyone in the meeting." Alternative expressions include "nontraditional concept" and "original thought."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

It would, therefore, be easy to ignore another unconventional idea from him.

The Economist

All we saw were out-of-hand dismissals and mockery of this unconventional idea.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

AFH began with an ambitious and unconventional idea that young people can provide, through their innate talent and vision, marketable creative services to the business community.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

WHASSUP WITH THAT? -- It is not enough to take the risks of approving an unconventional idea and then spending enough money to garner sufficient attention.

The New York Times

But from another, he turned the fortune of his circumstances into the most unconventional idea of all: the one that showed humans their true ancestry in nature.

The New York Times

When he fired the piece, the landscape exploded, but the car survived, as did the unconventional idea of using clay to create funky trucks, cars and eventually, in 1990, airplanes.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

He is also pursuing other unconventional ideas.

The New York Times - Magazine

Ashton is not shy about detailing unconventional ideas.

The Guardian

The drowsy brain is unwound and disorganized, open to all sorts of unconventional ideas.

The New Yorker

But change looks inevitable and even unconventional ideas are guaranteed a hearing.*"Rethinking Capital Regulation".

The Economist

"Just know the facts". Not all of Gold's unconventional ideas withstood the test of time.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an "unconventional idea", provide context to illustrate why it deviates from established norms. This helps the audience understand the novelty and potential impact of the idea.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating how "unconventional" an idea is without sufficient justification. Ensure that the idea truly challenges existing norms and isn't simply a minor variation of a well-known concept.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unconventional idea" functions as a noun phrase, where "unconventional" modifies the noun "idea". This phrase is commonly used to introduce or describe concepts that deviate from established norms or traditions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

25%

Science & Research

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unconventional idea" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that effectively describes a concept differing from established norms. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used across various contexts, particularly in news, academia, and research. Related phrases include "nontraditional concept" and "original thought". When using this phrase, ensure you provide enough context to highlight the novelty of the idea and avoid overstating its unconventionality. Overall, "unconventional idea" is a valuable expression for describing innovative and unorthodox thinking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nontraditional concept

Changes the adjective to a synonym emphasizing a departure from established norms.

unorthodox notion

Replaces both words with synonyms that highlight the deviation from standard beliefs or practices.

novel perspective

Shifts the focus to the innovative viewpoint offered by the idea.

original thought

Emphasizes the inventive and unprecedented nature of the idea.

groundbreaking concept

Highlights the potential for significant advancement or change.

innovative approach

Focuses on the method or strategy suggested by the idea, stressing its creativity.

avant-garde scheme

Uses more sophisticated vocabulary to denote a cutting-edge and experimental plan.

radical proposition

Emphasizes the significant departure from conventional thinking.

visionary concept

Highlights the forward-thinking and imaginative aspect of the idea.

exceptional viewpoint

Stresses the unique and outstanding nature of the idea as a perspective.

FAQs

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

You can use "unconventional idea" to describe a novel or unorthodox concept. For example, "Her unconventional idea for marketing the product led to a significant increase in sales."

What are some alternatives to "unconventional idea"?

Alternatives to "unconventional idea" include "nontraditional concept", "original thought", or "novel perspective", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "unconventional idea" formal or informal?

"Unconventional idea" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language and tone. However, in highly formal settings, you might consider alternatives like "innovative approach".

What makes an idea "unconventional"?

An idea is considered "unconventional" when it deviates significantly from accepted norms, traditional methods, or established beliefs. It often involves thinking outside the box and proposing solutions that are not immediately obvious.