the idea
noun
: the central meaning or purpose of something : goal or intention
The whole idea of the game is to keep from getting caught.
The idea is to get people to attend.
Examples of the idea in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Several Republican senators expressed misgivings about the idea, pointing to the potential for security and legal risks.
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Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 24 June 2026
These first citations demonstrate how the idea of a United States of America enlarged itself gradually out of practical expediencies.
—Ann Manov, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026
Keep in mind, this is purely conjecture on the part of NBA pundits, but the fact that Nico Harrison no longer works for the Mavericks makes some believe the idea is plausible.
—Bill Jones, CBS News, 23 June 2026
The management team hated the idea of being acquired.
—Louis Mosca, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for the idea
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Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 24 June 2026
These first citations demonstrate how the idea of a United States of America enlarged itself gradually out of practical expediencies.
—Ann Manov, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026
Keep in mind, this is purely conjecture on the part of NBA pundits, but the fact that Nico Harrison no longer works for the Mavericks makes some believe the idea is plausible.
—Bill Jones, CBS News, 23 June 2026
The management team hated the idea of being acquired.
—Louis Mosca, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for the idea
Cite this Entry
“The idea.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20idea. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.
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