concept

noun

ˈkän-ˌsept How to pronounce concept (audio)
Definition of conceptnext
1
as in notion
an idea or statement about all of the members of a group or all the instances of a situation trying to change the public's concept of a nightly newscast

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in idea
something imagined or pictured in the mind a concept for a new kind of automobile that could revolutionize the industry

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun concept contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of concept are conception, 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)," 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

How do conception and concept relate to one another?

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 is it sensible to use idea instead of concept?

The synonyms idea and concept are sometimes interchangeable, but 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 would impression be a good substitute for concept?

The words impression and concept are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 concept?

The words notion and concept 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 could thought be used to replace concept?

The meanings of thought and concept largely overlap; however, 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 concept Xiaomi’s Camera Mod Could Upgrade Phone Photography Photograph: Simon Hill Aside from its main announcements, Xiaomi granted us a sneak peek at a new modular concept camera phone. —Simon Hill, WIRED, 5 Mar. 2025 Introducing the concept of alternatives, or exploring the Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement (BATNA), encourages both sides to think beyond the current impasse. —Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025 In 1920, the initial concept transformed into the modern-day, red Michelin Guide, and stars for fine dining began in 1926. —Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 5 Mar. 2025 It was conceived to redefine the concept of interior design and intertwine multisensory experiences that evoke harmony, cultural elegance and timeless charm. —Sofia Celeste, WWD, 4 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for concept
Recent Examples of Synonyms for concept
  1. notion
  2. idea
  3. conception
  4. thought
  5. stereotype
  6. impression
  7. theory
Noun
  • The implementation was much delayed due to a whole slew of factors, from states opposing the very notion to later delays caused by the pandemic to the usual governmental slowness.
    — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 13 Mar. 2025
  • In a sworn legal declaration, Flick claimed that DOGE officials arrived at SSA with preconceived notions of widespread fraud, despite no evidence to support such claims.
    — Dan Cody, Newsweek, 13 Mar. 2025
Definition of notion
Noun
  • Then Sterling did some less effective things and got suspended anyway, so that mad idea was, at least, parked for the time being.
    — Amy Lawrence, The Athletic, 13 Mar. 2025
  • Beyond being well-balanced nutritionally and scrape-the-plate tasty (thanks to the sweet-and-salty peanut sauce), this is one of the best high-protein dinner ideas when you’re crunched for time.
    — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Mar. 2025
Definition of idea
Noun
  • Public health experts say the curriculum should be expanded to include all parts of the menstrual cycle, including ovulation signs and the luteal phase, which is when conception typically occurs and can last 12 to 14 days.
    — Adrianna Rodriguez, USA TODAY, 6 Mar. 2025
  • There's a much bigger story to Sinatra and her conception of this bunker and what her plan was for this bunker long-term that will fill her out and explain her story even more.
    — Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 4 Mar. 2025
Definition of conception
Noun
  • National college basketball writers have shared their thoughts about the Jayhawks and their chances against the Razorbacks and in the tournament.
    — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 18 Mar. 2025
  • Liberals and conservatives reported having negative thoughts when asked about his podcast, according to a recent California poll.
    — Lia Russell, Sacramento Bee, 18 Mar. 2025
Definition of thought
Noun
  • Beyond logistical hurdles, Bramlett had to also overcome stereotypes about her age, particularly within the courtroom or during school meetings.
    — Tereza Shkurtaj, People.com, 15 Mar. 2025
  • This can perpetuate outdated stereotypes and prejudices, further entrenching them in our AI systems.
    — Mani Padisetti, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025
Definition of stereotype
Noun
  • The cutter’s job is a precise and deeply consequential part of the bespoke process—and one commonly misunderstood by those with only a cursory understanding or superficial impression of what bespoke tailoring looks like.
    — Caroline Reilly, Robb Report, 13 Mar. 2025
  • It’s been six years since Leaving Neverland left an indelible impression on Michael Jackson’s legacy.
    — Jake Kanter, Deadline, 13 Mar. 2025
Definition of impression
Noun
  • The theory is soon put to rest, though, when Rivera Garza starts receiving strange messages from the killer, signed with the names of different female artists.
    — Nicolás Medina Mora, The Atlantic, 13 Mar. 2025
  • This is a theory that has been championed by Polish theoretical physicist Nikodem Poplawski of the University of New Haven.
    — Robert Lea, Space.com, 13 Mar. 2025
Definition of theory

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Cite this Entry

“Concept.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/concept. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on concept

Nglish: Translation of concept for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about concept

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