notion

Pronunciation: NOH-shun

noun

Difficulty: common

Definition of notion

A conception, belief, or understanding about something, often reflecting a personal or abstract idea that may not be fully grounded in fact.

Origin of notion

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: notio

Original meaning: a becoming acquainted with, knowledge, or idea

How it evolved: Initially meaning 'knowledge' or 'understanding,' it came to signify a more abstract idea or belief as it entered English through Old French.

The word 'notion' traces back to the Latin 'notio,' meaning 'a becoming acquainted with' or 'idea,' which evolved into its current English usage through Old French.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember notion

Imagine 'notion' as a 'note' in your mind—a small mental 'note' you jot down as an idea or belief.

Synonyms for notion

  • idea
  • concept
  • belief
  • perception
  • understanding
  • impression
  • view
  • opinion

Antonyms of notion

  • fact
  • certainty
  • reality
  • truth

notion in a Sentence

  1. The notion of time as a linear progression is deeply ingrained in many cultures, but not all societies share this perspective.
  2. She dismissed the notion that success is solely a product of innate talent, emphasizing the importance of hard work and persistence instead.
  3. The proposal was based on an outdated notion of economic growth that failed to account for environmental sustainability.

notion in Literature & Culture

The term 'notion' frequently appears in philosophical and literary works, where it is used to explore abstract beliefs, societal constructs, and personal perceptions.

Usage Notes

The word 'notion' often carries an abstract or subjective connotation, emphasizing personal belief or perception over objective fact. It should not be confused with concrete ideas or established truths.

Why notion Matters for GRE & SAT

This word is valuable for GRE test-takers because it appears in reading comprehension passages and questions that require understanding abstract or theoretical ideas.

Word Family

notional (adjective)
Existing as or based on an idea or concept rather than a physical reality.
notionally (adverb)
In a way that is theoretical or based on an idea.
notionist (noun)
A person who is excessively attached to their own notions or ideas.

Did You Know?

  • The word 'notion' was first used to describe ideas in the 15th century, but in the 18th century, it also came to mean small, useful items like sewing supplies in American English.
  • Philosopher René Descartes famously explored the nature of innate notions, such as the concept of God, in his meditations on philosophy.
  • In the 19th century, 'notion' was slang for fanciful or whimsical ideas, often used to describe impractical schemes.

More Vocabulary Words Starting with N

  • Nefarious — Wicked, villainous, or criminal in nature.
  • nadir — the absolute lowest point or worst moment
  • nadir — the absolute lowest point or worst moment
  • naive — showing a lack of experience or judgment
  • naive — showing a lack of experience or judgment
  • narrate — To give an account of events or experiences
  • narrate — To give an account of events or experiences
  • nascent — in the process of emerging, being born, or starting to develop
  • nascent — in the process of emerging, being born, or starting to develop
  • negate — To nullify; make ineffective