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
When Bradley was getting started, the idea of anyone teaching Black dance in a classroom was new.
—
Brian Seibert, New Yorker, 13 May 2026
An Israeli source told CNN that the idea of a sunset clause has been floated in negotiations – a provision that would allow some restrictions to expire after a set number of years.
—Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 12 May 2026
After the meeting, Katzman, who died in 1996 at 69, pitched him the idea to make the season a dream.
—Victoria Edel, PEOPLE, 12 May 2026
His philosophy revolved around the interconnection of all living things and the idea that no species should be discounted.
—Susan Montoya Bryan, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for the idea
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Brian Seibert, New Yorker, 13 May 2026
An Israeli source told CNN that the idea of a sunset clause has been floated in negotiations – a provision that would allow some restrictions to expire after a set number of years.
—Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 12 May 2026
After the meeting, Katzman, who died in 1996 at 69, pitched him the idea to make the season a dream.
—Victoria Edel, PEOPLE, 12 May 2026
His philosophy revolved around the interconnection of all living things and the idea that no species should be discounted.
—Susan Montoya Bryan, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 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 13 May. 2026.
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