10 Phrases to Say “That’s a Good Idea”
When someone offers a suggestion, proposal, or solution, it’s vital to acknowledge it warmly and clearly. Simply saying “That’s a good idea” works, but using varied and enthusiastic language shows genuine engagement and encourages further participation. Mastering these 10 phrases to say “that’s a good idea” will help you sound enthusiastic, supportive, and fluent in brainstorming sessions or everyday conversations.
We’ve organized these phrases based on the level of enthusiasm and formality.
Expressing Strong Enthusiasm and Approval 🤩
Use these phrases when you think the suggestion is genuinely excellent and you are excited to move forward with it.
1. That’s brilliant! Brilliant is a strong adjective (especially common in British English) used to mean extremely clever or inspired.
- Meaning: The idea is extremely smart and clever.
- Example: “We should use the remaining budget for training.” — “That’s brilliant! We hadn’t thought of that.”
2. I love that idea! A very warm, personal, and enthusiastic way to express approval. It shows personal investment in the suggestion.
- Meaning: You personally and strongly approve of the suggestion.
- Example: “Let’s launch the product on a Friday to maximize weekend sales.” — “I love that idea!“
3. That’s a clever suggestion. Clever focuses on the intelligence and ingenuity of the person who came up with the proposal.
- Meaning: You are praising the intelligence behind the suggestion.
- Example: “To save time, we can automate the weekly report.” — “That’s a clever suggestion. It will free up hours.”
4. That might just work. This implies the idea is creative or slightly unexpected, but you are now optimistic about its potential success.
- Meaning: You acknowledge the idea is innovative and likely to succeed.
- Example: “Instead of buying new equipment, let’s repair the old ones ourselves.” — “That might just work.“
5. Perfect! A short, high-energy confirmation used when the idea solves a problem completely and efficiently.
- Meaning: The idea is the ideal solution.
- Example: “We can meet for the presentation review right after lunch.” — “Perfect! That fits my schedule.”
Formal and Thoughtful Confirmation 🧐
Use these phrases in professional settings, meetings, or when you want to signal that you have seriously considered the suggestion.
6. I think we should run with that. To run with something is a common idiom meaning to adopt the idea and start implementing it immediately.
- Meaning: You agree to adopt and proceed with the idea.
- Example: “Let’s change the color scheme to match the new logo.” — “I think we should run with that.“
7. That’s definitely worth pursuing. Pursuing means following up or investigating further. This phrase is used when the idea is good but requires more planning.
- Meaning: The idea is strong enough to warrant further investigation and planning.
- Example: “We could offer a loyalty program to our best customers.” — “That’s definitely worth pursuing.“
8. That makes a lot of sense. This phrase focuses on the logic and reasoning behind the suggestion, confirming that it is sound and reasonable.
- Meaning: You find the idea logical and well-reasoned.
- Example: “Let’s split the work into three smaller groups.” — “That makes a lot of sense. It will be much faster.”
9. Good call. A casual but very popular phrase used to confirm that a decision or suggestion was the correct one.
- Meaning: You confirm the suggestion was the right decision.
- Example: “I’m glad we decided to wait until after the rain stopped.” — “Good call. The sun is out now.”
10. I like the sound of that. This is a relaxed, friendly way to express approval. It works well when discussing plans or hypothetical scenarios.
- Meaning: You find the proposal appealing and agreeable.
- Example: “How about we start the workshop with a team-building exercise?” — “I like the sound of that.“
Real-Life Dialogues
See how these 10 phrases to say “that’s a good idea” fit into everyday conversation.
Scenario 1: Casual Planning Friend: We can’t order pizza again. How about we make tacos tonight instead? You: I love that idea! We still have the spice kit. Friend: And we can watch a movie afterwards. You: Perfect! What time should we start?
Scenario 2: Professional Meeting Colleague: To reduce shipping costs, we should only ship bulk orders on Fridays. You: That makes a lot of sense. It will save us money immediately. Manager: Yes. That’s definitely worth pursuing. Sam, can you look into the logistics for that?
Quick Tips for Approving Suggestions
- Be Specific: Pair the phrase with a reason (e.g., “That’s brilliant! because it solves our budget problem”).
- Use Action: Follow up your agreement with an immediate action (e.g., “I think we should run with that. I’ll start the paperwork right now”).
- Match the Energy: Use the highly enthusiastic options (1-5) for ideas that genuinely excite you.
Which phrase best indicates that the idea is ready to be put into action?
