idea
[ˈɪ.de.a]
The English phrase "idea" is translated into Latin as idea.
idea refers to any result of mental activity, such as a thought, a notion or a way of thinking.
Meaning: any result of mental activity, a thought, a notion, a way of thinking (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
idea is the default nominative singular form. Use ideam for the accusative singular, ideae for the genitive singular and ideis for the dative plural. For plural forms, use ideas for the nominative plural and idearum for the genitive plural.
Did you know?
- The root of idea is related to the Greek verb for 'to see', reflecting an ancient belief that thinking is a form of internal vision.
- In Classical Latin, writers often preferred the word consilium when referring to a practical 'idea' or 'plan' rather than the more abstract idea.
- In philosophical Latin, an idea is not just a thought in your head, but a perfect, unchanging model of a thing that exists in a higher realm.
Examples in context
- Quomodo haec idea tibi placet?How do you like this idea?This sentence is useful for asking how someone likes a particular idea.Tatoeba #10814785 by carlosalberto, translation #10814778 by carlosalberto
- Non puto hanc ideam bonam esse.I think it's not a good idea.This sentence is useful for expressing that you do not think a certain idea is good.Tatoeba #11577567 by soweli_Elepanto, translation #3329453 by CK
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a plan for the weekend.
- GaiusClaudia, habeo ideam pro hac nocte.Claudia, I have an idea for tonight.
- ClaudiaDic mihi, Gai. Quid est?Tell me, Gaius. What is it?
- GaiusHaec idea est: ad forum ire.This idea is to go to the forum.
- ClaudiaOptima idea est!That is a great idea!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry idea, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
