Definition

Noun: 1. A general, often vague, idea or understanding: A thought, belief, or concept that may not be fully formed or precise. 2. A personal inclination, whim, or fancy: A sudden or capricious idea, desire, or intention. 3. (Chiefly North American) Small, useful items; sundries: Especially referring to small articles used in sewing (e.g., buttons, thread, needles) or other miscellaneous goods.

Examples

1. As a general idea or concept:
   • I have a notion that he will be late again.
   • She had only a vague notion of how the machine worked.
   • The book challenges traditional notions of beauty.
2. As a whim or intention:
   • He took a sudden notion to travel the world.
   • I have no notion of apologizing to him.
3. (North American usage) As small items:
   • The craft store sells fabrics, patterns, and sewing notions.

Advanced Usage

• "To have a notion to do something": To have a sudden or definite intention to do something.
  • She had a notion to start her own business.
• "To have no notion": To have no understanding or intention.
  • He had no notion what she was talking about.
  • I have no notion of going to that party.

Variants and Related Words

• Notional (adjective): Existing only in theory or as a suggestion; hypothetical or imaginary.
  • The budget includes a notional amount for future expenses.

Synonyms

• Idea, concept, thought, impression, belief, conception.
• Whim, fancy, caprice.
• (For items) Sundries, accessories, haberdashery.

Related Phrases

• Preconceived notion: An idea or opinion formed beforehand without adequate evidence.
  • It's important to approach the problem without preconceived notions.

Noun

1. (usually plural) small personal articles or clothing or sewing items
   • buttons and needles are notions
2. an odd or fanciful or capricious idea
   • the theatrical notion of disguise is associated with disaster in his stories
   • he had a whimsy about flying to the moon
   • whimsy can be humorous to someone with time to enjoy it
3. a general inclusive concept
4. a vague idea in which some confidence is placed
   • his impression of her was favorable
   • what are your feelings about the crisis?
   • it strengthened my belief in his sincerity
   • I had a feeling that she was lying