notion
B2Neutral (used in both formal and informal contexts).
Definition
Meaning
A general understanding, vague idea, or belief, often incomplete or intuitive.
A whim, fancy, or intention to do something. In business contexts, can refer to a concept or model. In software (Notion), a brand name for a productivity tool.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
"Notion" implies less certainty and formality than "concept" or "theory". It often suggests a personal, subjective idea rather than a rigorously defined one.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in core meaning or usage. 'Notion' as a term for small items like buttons or pins (notion counter/store) is almost exclusively North American.
Connotations
Similar in both varieties.
Frequency
Slightly more common in American English, partly due to the North American retail meaning.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] + have + a/the + [adjective] + notion + that-clause[Subject] + dismiss/reject + the + notion + of + [gerund/noun phrase]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “haven't the foggiest notion”
- “take a notion to do something (chiefly US, informal)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used to describe business models or concepts (e.g., 'We need to challenge the traditional notion of customer service').
Academic
Used in philosophical or theoretical discussions about ideas and beliefs (e.g., 'Plato's notion of ideal forms').
Everyday
Common for describing plans or vague ideas (e.g., 'I have a notion to visit Scotland next spring').
Technical
In linguistics or philosophy, refers to a conceptual understanding distinct from a precise definition.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- Not applicable. 'Notion' is not used as a verb.
American English
- Not applicable. 'Notion' is not used as a verb.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable.
American English
- Not applicable.
adjective
British English
- Not applicable. 'Notional' is the adjective form.
American English
- Not applicable. 'Notional' is the adjective form.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I have a notion that it might rain later.
- She had no notion of the time.
- He rejected the notion that he was to blame.
- Where did you get that notion?
- The book challenges traditional notions of beauty.
- I took a sudden notion to learn the guitar.
- The very notion of absolute truth is philosophically contentious.
- Her research is predicated on the notion that consumer behaviour is inherently irrational.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'NOTION' sounds like 'Ocean' of ideas—a vast, sometimes vague sea of thoughts.
Conceptual Metaphor
IDEAS ARE POSSESSIONS ('have a notion'), IDEAS ARE OBJECTS ('reject that notion'), IDEAS ARE FASHIONS ('old-fashioned notions').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation with 'нотация' (which means 'lecture' or 'reprimand'). The closer Russian equivalent is 'понятие' or 'представление'.
- Be careful with 'notion' as 'whim'. Russian 'прихоть' or 'блажь' are strong equivalents.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing 'notion' with 'motion'.
- Using 'notion' for a fully developed 'theory' or 'plan'.
- Incorrect: 'I have a notion to go to the cinema tomorrow' (if it's a firm plan). Better: 'I'm planning to...' or 'I intend to...'
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'notion' LEAST appropriate?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Idea' is broader and can range from vague to concrete. 'Notion' typically implies a vaguer, less formal, or more personal belief or understanding.
No, 'notion' is exclusively a noun. The related adjective is 'notional'.
In North America, 'notions' (plural) refers to small items used in sewing and haberdashery, like buttons, threads, and pins.
It is neutral. It is acceptable in formal writing (e.g., academic papers) when describing beliefs or concepts, but its core meaning often implies informality compared to 'concept' or 'theory'.