Synonym Chooser

How does the noun conception contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of conception are concept, idea, impression, notion, and thought. While all these words mean "what exists in the mind as a representation (as of something comprehended) or as a formulation (as of a plan)," conception is often interchangeable with concept; it may stress the process of imagining or formulating rather than the result.

our changing conception of what constitutes art

When can concept be used instead of conception?

Although the words concept and conception have much in common, concept may apply to the idea formed by consideration of instances of a species or genus or, more broadly, to any idea of what a thing ought to be.

a society with no concept of private property

When might idea be a better fit than conception?

The meanings of idea and conception largely overlap; however, idea may apply to a mental image or formulation of something seen or known or imagined, to a pure abstraction, or to something assumed or vaguely sensed.

innovative ideas
my idea of paradise

When is impression a more appropriate choice than conception?

While the synonyms impression and conception are close in meaning, impression applies to an idea or notion resulting immediately from some stimulation of the senses.

the first impression is of soaring height

Where would notion be a reasonable alternative to conception?

The words notion and conception can be used in similar contexts, but notion suggests an idea not much resolved by analysis or reflection and may suggest the capricious or accidental.

you have the oddest notions

When is it sensible to use thought instead of conception?

The synonyms thought and conception are sometimes interchangeable, but thought is likely to suggest the result of reflecting, reasoning, or meditating rather than of imagining.

commit your thoughts to paper

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of conception Yet none of these considerations attended the rodeo’s conception, which, by one account, dates to a rainy day in the winter of 2007. Nathaniel Rich, Harpers Magazine, 20 Aug. 2025 Adding condoms not only decreases your risk of conception but also adds protection against STIs. Jill Grimes, CNN Money, 13 Aug. 2025 Infinity has established itself in part due to its showcasing of the entire production pipeline, from conception to final cut. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 12 Aug. 2025 One such widely popular and longtime loved—since its conception more than 70 years ago, actually—is Texas Caviar, known to many as Cowboy Caviar. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 8 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for conception
Recent Examples of Synonyms for conception
Noun
  • Schiffer said Meghan had been too risk averse in the first two seasons, but could try to pitch a slightly different concept for a third season that pushed the boundaries far more.
    Jack Royston, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Sep. 2025
  • The company tipped a concept washer and dryer with a robot vacuum built into the base, similar to Eureka's Dual Washing Bot announced at CES last year.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 4 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • In the midst of feeling helpless, Kate said an idea took shape to commemorate the victims.
    Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Sep. 2025
  • And the 18-year-old Mastantuono has already brought fresh ideas to Madrid’s attack.
    James McNicholas, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • However, men often weigh the potential social costs before speaking up, which can lead them to not engage or to reinforce gender stereotypes.
    Colleen Tolan, The Conversation, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Though gender stereotypes have persisted, Suni tells me that playing with LEGOs and doing gymnastics share a lot of common ground.
    Caroline Price, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • In that initial video call, McCarthy shared his thoughts on Acosta’s previous offenses.
    Alec Lewis, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2025
  • Follow Scheffler for destination stories, travel trends and thought-provoking conversations from the world of travel.
    Daniel Scheffler, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • But while some reject the notion of vodka with flavor, preferring a clean and neutral spirit, Mendel won Vodka of the Year at the New Orleans Spirits Competition announced at Tales of the Cocktail in 2022, proof that spirits experts appreciate the unique flavor.
    Don Tse, Forbes.com, 6 Sep. 2025
  • And while the notion of privatizing a public liberal arts college may seem radical, it can also be understood as an escalation of a larger pattern.
    Alice Herman, Miami Herald, 6 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • These aren't just impressions—they're experiences that drive immediate conversion while building brand affinity.
    Kiri Masters, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025
  • Unsurprisingly, the impression left by Karl is an overwhelmingly positive one, generous with praise and ginger with criticism.
    Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 2 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • But experts have a few theories about how these dietary habits might influence osteoporosis risk.
    Simon Spichak, Health, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Gleason, famously fascinated with UFOs and metaphysical theory, dreamed up the circular home that embodied futuristic ambition while showcasing old-fashioned craftsmanship.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 3 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Conception.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/conception. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on conception

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!