Understanding words can sometimes be confusing. One such word many people ask about is “notion.” It is used in daily life, books, movies, and even in business. This article explains the meaning of notion, how to use it, and why it is important in English.
What is the Meaning of Notion?
The word notion means a belief, idea, or thought about something. It can be strong or just a quick opinion that comes to mind. A notion can be true or false. It does not have to be correct — it is simply what a person thinks.
Simple Definition
A notion is a simple idea or opinion that someone has about something.
Example:
- I have a notion that it might rain today.
Here, notion means a thought or feeling that rain may come.
Main Uses of the Word Notion
The word “notion” can be used in different ways. Here are the most common uses:
1️⃣ Idea or Belief
When someone thinks or believes something, even without proof.
Example:
- She had a notion that the movie would be boring.
2️⃣ Understanding of Something
Sometimes, a notion means knowing or having knowledge about a topic.
Example:
- He has no notion of how computers work.
This means he does not understand computers.
3️⃣ Small Items (Mainly in Shops)
In American English, “notions” can also mean small sewing or household items like thread, buttons, or needles.
Example:
- The shop sells clothing and notions.
So the meaning depends on the sentence and context.
Why Understanding “Notion” is Important
The word is widely used in:
✔ Writing
✔ Conversations
✔ Education
✔ Business
✔ Creative work
Knowing the meaning helps you:
- Improve your vocabulary
- Express your ideas clearly
- Understand books and formal English better
It is a common word in professional communication, so learning it can make your English sound smarter and more natural.
Difference Between Notion, Idea, and Concept
People often mix these three words, but each has a small difference:
WordMeaningExampleNotionA quick belief or opinionI have a notion he is late.IdeaA new thought or planI have an idea for a game.ConceptA deeper and more developed ideaThe concept of time is complex.
➡ A notion is usually less detailed than an idea or concept.
Common Phrases Using Notion
Here are some popular expressions:
PhraseMeaningHave no notionNo understanding/ideaGet a notionSuddenly think or want somethingSilly notionA foolish or funny ideaRomantic notionA nice but unrealistic belief
Example:
- He got a silly notion to fly using homemade wings.
This shows the thought is unrealistic.
Examples of Notion in Sentences
Here are some easy sentence examples:
- She rejected the notion that money brings happiness.
- I had a notion to call you earlier, but I forgot.
- Many people still have old notions about health.
- He has no notion of how hard the work is.
- The notion of living on Mars is exciting.
Try using these in your daily English!
The Origin of the Word “Notion”
The word comes from the Latin word notio which means:
- knowledge
- concept
- understanding
It entered the English language around the 14th century. Since then, its meaning has grown, especially in education and creative thinking.
Different Forms of the Word
FormTypeUseNotionNounThe main wordNotionsPlural nounMany beliefs or many itemsNotionalAdjectiveBased on ideas, not facts
Example:
- This is a notional budget.
Meaning: based on assumptions, not final facts.
Conclusion
The word “Notion Meaning” is simple but powerful. It expresses what people think or believe. A notion can be small, strong, wrong, or wise — but it always shows the human mind at work.
