0 a suggestion or plan for doing something: --
I've had an idea - why don't we go to the coast?
"Let's go swimming." "That's a good idea!"
If you have any ideas for what I could buy Jack, let me know.
That's when I first had the idea of starting (= planned to start) my own business.
I like the idea of living in the countryside but I'm not sure I'd like the reality.
[ + to infinitive ] It was Kate's idea to hire bikes.
1 an understanding, thought, or picture in your mind: --
Do you have any idea of what he looks like?
Can you give me an idea of the cost (= can you tell me approximately how it costs)?
[ + question word ] I haven't the slightest/faintest idea where they've gone.
"Where's Serge?" "I've no idea."
We have very different ideas about disciplining children.
[ + that ] Dr Leach puts forward the idea that it is impossible to spoil a child.
I'm not married - where did you get that idea (= what made you believe that)?
4 a suggestion, thought, or plan: --
We can complete it step by step however long the road is and it can't be completed however short the road is if you don't even mark your footprint.
Можем да го завършим стъпка по стъпка, колкото и дълъг да е пътят и не може да бъде завършен, колкото и кратък да е пътят, ако дори не маркирате отпечатъка си.