what's the idea

Idioms  

1. Also, what's the big idea; the very idea. What do you think you are doing? What foolishness do you have in mind? For example, What's the idea of taking the car without permission? or You've invited yourself along? What's the big idea? or Take a two-year-old up Mount Washington? The very idea! These phrases, all implying the speaker's disapproval, use idea in the sense of “what one has in mind.” The first two date from about 1900; the third is heard more in Britain than America.

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Example Sentences

“That allows a real connection, and that’s key. Think: What’s the idea of that person, not just the more one-dimensional image of change or achievement she represents.”

From New York Times

I responded, “What’s the idea?”

From Los Angeles Times

What’s the idea in going after Hannity?

From The New Yorker

“So what’s the idea? That afterwards you and I have the exact same conversation?”

From The Verge

What’s the idea behind this new piece?

From New York Times