Synonyms for

Conceive

Verb / kʌˈnsi:v / Another word for conceive — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to form an idea or plan in the mind; to become pregnant with a child

Synonyms & similar words

conceptualize believe gestate think conceptualise consider imagine devise formulate create develop design invent originate plan realize understand apprehend comprehend grasp perceive sense visualize envisage see

Synonyms by register

Formal

devise originate formulate envisage

Informal

think up dream up come up with imagine

Literary

forge fashion engender

Antonyms

dismiss reject disregard ignore forget neglect

Common collocations

  • conceive of an idea
  • conceive a plan
  • conceive a child
  • conceive a strategy
  • conceive a purpose
  • conceive a design
  • conceive a notion

Word family

noun conception
verb conceive
adjective conceivable

Usage note

Primarily used to mean 'to form an idea' or 'to become pregnant'. The latter meaning is more common in older or more formal contexts.

Example sentences

  1. She could not conceive of a world without color.
  2. He conceived the idea of starting his own business.
  3. The couple finally conceived a child after many years of trying.
  4. The writer conceived a plot for a new novel.
  5. It is difficult to conceive how much effort it takes to run a marathon.

Quotes

  • The creative process begins with an idea. And an idea begins with an insight - a moment of understanding that allows the creation of something new. - Nathan Sawaya
  • The mind is everything. What you think you become. - Buddha
  • Everything is created twice, first in the mind and then in reality. - Robin S. Sharma

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