conceive
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /kənˈsiːv/
KK: /kənˈsiv/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become pregnant or to form an idea or plan in the mind.
Example
She was able to conceive after several years of trying.
Tense Forms
Past: conceived
Past Participle: conceived
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how people conceive ideas differently?
Definitely! It's interesting to see how creativity works in different minds.
Right? Some people can conceive of things that seem so out there.
Exactly! That's what makes brainstorming sessions so fun.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
imagine
envision
dream
Antonyms
disbelieve
reject
neglect
transitive verb
Definition
To form or develop an idea, plan, or offspring in the mind or body.
Example
She was able to conceive a brilliant plan for the project.
Tense Forms
Past: conceived
Past Participle: conceived
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how people conceive their ideas?
Yeah, it's interesting how creativity works in different minds.
Exactly! Some people just seem to conceive brilliant plans out of nowhere.
Root Explanation
Conceive → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "capere" (meaning to take or seize). The word "conceive" means to take together an idea or to form a notion in the mind.
Memory Tip
Think of 'taking together' an idea — 'con-' means together, and 'capere' means to take. This helps you remember that to conceive means to form an idea.
Visually Confused Words
reconceive
unconceived
preconceive
misconceive
connexive
coniceine
conducive
preconceived