preconceived notion

American  

[pree-kuhn-seevd noh-shuhn] / ˈpri kənˌsivd ˈnoʊ ʃən /

noun

1. an idea or judgment about something formed before encountering any evidence or firsthand information.

   It’s important to note the obstacles, but we don't want to begin with the preconceived notion that this project is simply undoable.

   Even back then, she wasn’t deterred by the naysayers and their preconceived notions about what careers women could or couldn't have.

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Etymology

Origin of preconceived notion

First recorded in 1650–60

Example Sentences

A lot of times guests came in with some sort of preconceived notion for how it would go and then had their minds changed just over the course of doing the interview.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2025

“It’s an artistic tool, in a way. When somebody is coming at your music with a preconceived notion, then you have some friction to push against. And that’s artistically enticing.”

From Seattle Times • Nov. 6, 2023

"We have a preconceived notion that diamonds are so unique. They're hard to come by on the Earth's surface," Arianna Gleason, one of the study authors, told Salon at the time.

From Salon • Sep. 6, 2023

Laz Alonso recalled his days as an aspiring actor trying to break into the industry with the preconceived notion that all actors were rich.

From Reuters • Jul. 4, 2023

It is extraordinary how every preconceived notion and habit is thrown to the winds.

From Nelka Mrs. Helen de Smirnoff Moukhanoff, 1878-1963, a Biographical Sketch by Moukhanoff, Michael

Related Words

• preconception