"have an idea on" vs "have an idea about"

Question

"have an idea on" vs "have an idea about"

Both 'have an idea about' and 'have an idea on' are commonly used phrases in English, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Have an idea about' is more commonly used when discussing knowledge or understanding of a topic, while 'have an idea on' is less common and may sound awkward to some native speakers.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

This phrase can be used informally to mean having a vague notion or plan about something, but it is less common than 'have an idea about.'

Examples:

I have an idea on how to approach the project.
Do you have any ideas on what to do next?
She has some ideas on how to redecorate the living room.
He has a few ideas on how to improve the process.
We need to brainstorm and come up with ideas on how to proceed.

Alternatives:

have a notion on
have a plan on
have a concept on
have a strategy on
have a thought on

This phrase is used to indicate that someone possesses knowledge or understanding about a particular subject or concept.

Examples:

I have an idea about how to solve this problem.
Do you have any ideas about where to go for dinner?
She has no idea about the new company policy.
He has some interesting ideas about the future of technology.
We need to brainstorm and come up with ideas about the project.

Alternatives:

have knowledge about
have understanding about
have thoughts about
have insights about
have information about

Answer 1

have an idea on

This phrase is less common and may sound awkward to some native speakers, but it can still be used in informal contexts.

Answer 2

have an idea about

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when discussing knowledge or understanding of a topic.

"have an idea on" vs "have an idea about"

have an idea on

have an idea about

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