brainstorm
To generate creative ideas through group discussion
Examples
In a meeting
“Let's brainstorm solutions before our meeting with the stakeholders.”
Over coffee
“We should brainstorm some fun activities for the reunion.”
Why this word
think
Brainstorm specifically means generating multiple creative ideas rapidly without initial judgment, while think is generic mental activity
discuss
Brainstorm emphasizes free-flowing idea generation in a creative session, while discuss implies more structured exchange of existing thoughts
come up with
Brainstorm denotes a specific collaborative or creative process for generating ideas, while come up with is informal and doesn't specify the method
Usage tip
Use when encouraging open, creative thinking without immediate judgment
Etymology
English brain + storm, coined in 1940s by advertising executive Alex Osborn
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Related words
devise
To invent or create a plan or solution
fabricate
To construct or manufacture something, especially with skill and ingenuity
collaborate
To work jointly with others on a shared goal or project.
coordinate
To organize different elements or people to work together effectively
cohesive
United and working together as a whole
innovate
To introduce new methods, ideas, or products