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
Look, nobody on the GTW crew is thrilled at the idea of the Nuggets missing Gordon for an extended stretch.
—
Sean Keeler, The Denver Post, 9 Nov. 2024
But supporters said the idea, which began during the COVID pandemic and continues now on weekends, offered a renaissance for the city, similar to the construction of Crissy Field 20 years ago near the Golden Gate Bridge, or the removal of the Embarcadero freeway after the 1989 earthquake.
—Paul Rogers, The Mercury News, 7 Nov. 2024
The Science Behind Vulnerable Leadership Research backs up the idea that vulnerability isn’t just a personal strength but a strategic advantage in leadership.
—Krystyna Larrave, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Meanwhile, Trump's vice presidential candidate, JD Vance, has floated the idea of a $5,000 CTC, but the campaign hasn't introduced more details, according to the Tax Policy Center.
—Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 5 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for the idea 
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of
Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback
about these examples.
Sean Keeler, The Denver Post, 9 Nov. 2024
But supporters said the idea, which began during the COVID pandemic and continues now on weekends, offered a renaissance for the city, similar to the construction of Crissy Field 20 years ago near the Golden Gate Bridge, or the removal of the Embarcadero freeway after the 1989 earthquake.
—Paul Rogers, The Mercury News, 7 Nov. 2024
The Science Behind Vulnerable Leadership Research backs up the idea that vulnerability isn’t just a personal strength but a strategic advantage in leadership.
—Krystyna Larrave, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Meanwhile, Trump's vice presidential candidate, JD Vance, has floated the idea of a $5,000 CTC, but the campaign hasn't introduced more details, according to the Tax Policy Center.
—Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 5 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for the idea
Dictionary Entries Near the idea
Cite this Entry
“The idea.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20idea. Accessed 17 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share