English Reference
noun · verb

concept

n. · v.
US /ˈkɑnsɛpt/ UK /kˈɒnsɛpt/ con·cept UK spelling concept's, concept's

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    n.a general idea or a principle about how something works.

    n.an abstract or general idea derived from specific instances; often used to describe theoretical frameworks.

    Simple

    The concept of time travel is very popular in science fiction movies.

    In context

    The professor introduced the concept of social capital, explaining how networks of relationships can function as a resource within a community.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a new idea for a product or a building that shows what it might look like.

    n.a preliminary design or model intended to demonstrate a new product, vehicle, or architectural project.

    Simple

    The company showed a concept car that runs entirely on solar energy.

    In context

    The architects presented a concept for the new library that prioritised natural light and open communal spaces.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Technical Computing

    n.a rule in computer programming that describes what a certain type of data can do.

    n.a description of supported operations on a type, including their syntax and semantics, used to constrain template arguments.

    Simple

    The programmer used a concept to make sure the code only accepted numbers.

    In context

    By defining a specific concept for the template, the developer ensured that the compiler would catch type mismatches before runtime.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced Informal

    v.to think of a new idea or to imagine something.

    v.to conceive or develop an initial idea or design; often used in creative industries.

    Simple

    The team spent the afternoon trying to concept a new marketing campaign.

    In context

    The creative director was tasked to concept the entire visual identity of the brand within a single weekend.

Usage abstract concept · apply concept · bring concept

They can break down complex financial concepts and provide financial solutions in seconds.

Phys.org· 17 Aug 2026

The first die was made from pine as a proof of concept.

Phys.org· 17 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated