notion

IPA

Dictionary definition of notion

A general idea or belief about something, often based on limited evidence or understanding.
"The notion of traveling to the moon was once considered impossible."

Detailed meaning of notion

Notion can refer to It can also refer to a specific concept or mental image of something that a person holds in their mind. Notions are often formed through personal experience, observation, or cultural conditioning and can vary widely between individuals and societies. For example, a notion about a particular culture or group may be based on stereotypes or misinformation, whereas a notion about a scientific concept may be based on a lack of understanding or misinformation. Notions can be challenged and changed through education, exposure to new experiences or ideas, and critical thinking. Overall, notions play an important role in shaping our perceptions and beliefs about the world, but it is important to be aware of their limitations and biases.

Example sentences containing notion

1. The notion of life on Mars is intriguing yet debatable.
2. Jane struggled with the notion of starting her business.
3. The professor dismissed the notion that his research was incorrect.
4. Tom's notion of happiness involved living in a small cottage by the beach.
5. The company rejected the notion that it was responsible for the environmental damage.
6. The notion of working remotely full-time was once unthinkable, but now it's the norm.

History and etymology of notion

The noun 'notion' has an intriguing etymology that connects it to the Latin word 'notio,' which means 'a mental concept' or 'idea.' 'Notio' itself is derived from 'noscere,' meaning 'to get to know' or 'to understand.' Over time, this Latin root evolved into the Old French term 'notion,' which referred to a general idea or belief about something, often based on limited evidence or understanding. This linguistic journey highlights the fundamental nature of notions as mental constructs, rooted in the process of understanding and knowledge acquisition. It underscores the idea that notions are not fixed truths but rather evolving concepts shaped by our perceptions and experiences.

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Further usage examples of notion

1. Mike had a romantic notion of travelling across Europe by train.
2. Sarah's notion of the perfect dinner involves homemade pasta and a good bottle of wine.
3. The notion of artificial intelligence scares some people, while exciting others.
4. We should entertain the notion that change can be beneficial.
5. His notion of a successful career did not involve a high paying job.
6. The notion that cats and dogs are enemies is a common misconception.
7. Julie had a unique notion about the future of technology.
8. The notion that exercise is good for mental health is backed by research.
9. The theory originated from a basic notion about the nature of particles.
10. The notion that we are alone in the universe seems increasingly unlikely.
11. His notion of a perfect weekend involved books, coffee, and solitude.
12. I appreciate your notion, but I have a different perspective.
13. The notion of self-driving cars is becoming a reality.
14. The government's notion to improve the education system is ambitious.