conceive
verb C1
Plain meaning
to imagine an idea or become pregnant
Exam-register meaning
In academic or exam contexts, it means to imagine an idea or become pregnant, usually in a more formal register.
In context
naturalThe team tried to conceive the problem before it became serious.
examThe report argues that institutions should conceive ineffective practices through evidence-based reform.
Common collocations
conceive a proposalconceive the issueconceive in practice
Watch out
Do not use “conceive” with every object. Check the object that follows it and avoid using it when a simpler verb is more natural.
Word family
conception (noun)conceivable (adjective)