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How to Say "notion" in Spanish

English → Spanish

idea

/ee-DEH-ah//iˈðe.a/

NounB1General
Use 'idea' when referring to a vague thought, a guess, or a general lack of understanding about something.
A vast, swirling cloud of indistinct gray mist or fog that obscures everything behind it, representing a vague notion or lack of clarity.

Examples

No tengo ni la más remota idea de lo que hablas.

I don't have the slightest idea what you're talking about.

Me da la idea de que no está contento.

I get the impression that he is not happy.

Para que te hagas una idea, es tan grande como un coche.

To give you an idea, it's as big as a car.

concepto

kon-SEP-toh/konˈθepto/

nounA2General
Use 'concepto' when you mean a more formal or abstract understanding, a principle, or a definition of something.
A person standing next to a large, clear thought bubble containing a perfectly formed, foundational geometric cube, symbolizing a general idea.

Examples

El concepto de la libertad es complejo.

The concept of freedom is complex.

Necesitas entender el concepto clave antes de continuar.

You need to understand the key concept before continuing.

Su nuevo proyecto tiene un concepto muy original.

Their new project has a very original concept.

Masculine Noun Rule

Remember that 'concepto' is always masculine, even though it ends in '-o.' Use 'el' or 'un' with it: 'el concepto'.

Using 'la' instead of 'el'

Mistake: “La concepto”

Correction: El concepto. Treat it like a male word.

Concepto vs. Idea

Learners often confuse 'concepto' and 'idea' by using 'idea' for abstract principles. Remember that 'concepto' is for a developed understanding or definition, while 'idea' is for a fleeting thought or a lack of knowledge.

Related Translations

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