preconceive

[ pree-kuhn-seev ]

verb (used with object)

, pre·con·ceived, pre·con·ceiv·ing.

1. to form a conception or opinion of beforehand, as before seeing evidence or as a result of previously held prejudice.

preconceive

/ ˌpriːkənˈsiːv /

verb

1. tr to form an idea of beforehand; conceive of ahead in time

Word History and Origins

Origin of preconceive¹

First recorded in 1570–80; pre- + conceive

Example Sentences

Their use cases are far more versatile than the initial assumptions and preconceived notions related to value, with expected compensation ranges to match that versatility based on audience sizes and channel selection.

From Search Engine Watch

It was impossible for Harold to preconceive the effect this had on Esther.

From Project Gutenberg

How little did I preconceive the conduct which, in an exigence like this, I should be prone to adopt.

From Project Gutenberg

More About Preconceive

What does preconceive mean?

Preconceive means to form an opinion or idea about something before you know anything factual or see any results, as in  I don’t preconceive ideas about foods I haven’t tried yet.

Preconceive is almost always used in the past tense, as in Watching the film confirmed Raul’s preconceived belief that he would hate it.

Preconceive often implies that the reason a person formed an opinion ahead of time is because they have biases or prejudices that are influencing them. For example, you might be biased against vegetables because you haven’t liked any of the ones you’ve tried so far. That bias might lead you to have a preconceived idea that you won’t like a vegetable you’ve never eaten before. But you’ll only know if you like it by trying it.

Preconceive is commonly used in the phrase preconceived notions, as in The man’s preconceived notions about rap music prevented him from giving it a fair chance.

Where does preconceive come from?

The first records of the term preconceive come from around 1570. It combines the prefix pre–, meaning “before,” and the word conceive, meaning “to form” or “to believe.” When someone preconceives something, they form an opinion about it before they have even come into contact with it.

Preconceive is nearly always used in a negative context. Even when talking about themselves, people use preconceive to discuss a situation in which their biases or assumptions affect how they view something. It’s always better to judge things based on facts or experiences rather than assumptions. You never know—you might find your new favorite thing by trying it!

Did you know … ?

What are some synonyms for preconceive?

• biased
• warped
• distorted
• prejudiced
• opinionated

What are some words that share a root or word element with preconceive?

• conceive

What are some words that often get used in discussing preconceive?

• biases
• assumptions
• prejudice
• notions
• beliefs

How is preconceive used in real life?

People use preconceive to mean to form an opinion or idea ahead of time.

Who coined the term "growling" anyways. Don't preconceive your vocal delivery, just feel and translate a way that's accurate to what's said

— Garret Rapp (@garretrapp) February 5, 2014

Let go of your preconceived notions about a person & your conversations will get easier.

— Lord D'usse (@VicDamone45) September 26, 2020

Don’t waste time trying to change people’s perceptions & opinions of you. Most have already made up their minds. Many have preconceived ideas based on what they’ve heard through the grapevine. Keep doing good. Your work is there for everyone to see. The truth will always prevail!

— Mufti Menk (@muftimenk) September 21, 2020

 

 

Try using preconceive!

Is the following sentence a correct use of preconceive?

You shouldn’t preconceive ideas about a person before you meet them.