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
Pulte has frequently promoted the idea, with stock traders studying his social media posts for clues about what’s likely coming next.
—
Georgie McKay, Fortune, 23 Nov. 2025
Some offerings reflect the idea that the dead exist in the future.
—Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 23 Nov. 2025
At first, the idea seemed manageable.
—Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 23 Nov. 2025
Kids understand the idea of climbing up and sliding down, and adults appreciate a game that doesn’t require much setup or explanation.
—Alex Shoemaker, Parents, 22 Nov. 2025
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Georgie McKay, Fortune, 23 Nov. 2025
Some offerings reflect the idea that the dead exist in the future.
—Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 23 Nov. 2025
At first, the idea seemed manageable.
—Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 23 Nov. 2025
Kids understand the idea of climbing up and sliding down, and adults appreciate a game that doesn’t require much setup or explanation.
—Alex Shoemaker, Parents, 22 Nov. 2025
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 1 Dec. 2025.
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