Conceive Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/kənˈsiːv/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Verb

Definition

To form an idea or notion of something; to imagine or think of something as a possibility.

Examples

• She conceived the idea of starting her own business.
• The team worked together to conceive a plan to solve the problem.

Synonyms

• Imagine
• Envision
• Think

Antonyms

• Reject
• Dismiss

Additional Information

Conceive is a versatile verb that can be used in various contexts, including creative thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. It involves generating ideas, exploring possibilities, and shaping concepts. Conceiving an idea can be a complex process that requires critical thinking, analysis, and evaluation.

In a broader sense, conceive can also refer to the act of becoming pregnant, but this sense is more specific and less common in everyday language.

In creative fields, conceiving an idea can be a crucial step in the development of a project, product, or artwork. It involves identifying a problem, need, or opportunity and generating a solution or concept that addresses it.

Etymology

The word “conceive” comes from the Latin “concipere”, which means “to take together” or “to become pregnant”. It has been used in English since the 14th century, initially in the sense of becoming pregnant, and later expanding to include the sense of forming an idea or notion.

Usage Notes

Conceive can be used in various contexts, including formal and informal writing, and spoken language. It is often used in the phrase “conceive of”, which means to imagine or think of something as possible or realistic.

Cultural References

Conceive has been used in popular culture to describe the creative process, innovation, and entrepreneurship. For example, Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, was known for his ability to conceive innovative products and solutions.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Conceive of
• Conceive an idea
• Conceive a plan

Related Words or Phrases

• Imagine
• Envision
• Innovate
• Create

Collocations

• Conceive an idea
• Conceive a plan
• Conceive a solution

Frequency of Use

Conceive is a moderately common verb in modern language, used in a variety of contexts, including formal and informal writing, and spoken language.

Common Misspellings

• Concieve
• Conseive
• Conceve