"The idea of writing this book" vs "The idea behind writing this book"

Question

"The idea of writing this book" vs "The idea behind writing this book"

Both phrases are correct, but they convey slightly different meanings. 'The idea of writing this book' suggests the concept or notion related to the act of writing the book. On the other hand, 'The idea behind writing this book' implies the motivation or reason for writing the book. The choice between the two depends on whether you want to focus on the concept of writing or the motivation behind it.

Last Updated: April 01, 2024

This phrase is used to introduce the concept or notion associated with the act of writing the book. It focuses on the idea itself rather than the motivation behind it.

Examples:

The idea of writing this book came to me in a dream.
She was inspired by the idea of writing this book.

Alternatives:

the concept of writing this book
the notion of writing this book
the thought of writing this book

This phrase is used to highlight the motivation or reason behind the act of writing the book. It emphasizes the purpose or inspiration that led to the writing.

Examples:

The idea behind writing this book was to raise awareness about mental health.
She explained the idea behind writing this book in her author's note.

Alternatives:

the motivation for writing this book
the reason behind writing this book
the purpose of writing this book

Answer 1

The idea of writing this book

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to the concept or notion related to the act of writing the book.

Answer 2

The idea behind writing this book

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to the motivation or reason for writing the book.

"The idea of writing this book" vs "The idea behind writing this book"

The idea of writing this book

The idea behind writing this book

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