PhrasesHub

Think tank

    Definitions

      • a group or organization that conducts research and provides expert analysis and recommendations
        Referring to organizations or groups that specialize in generating ideas and solutions for complex issues or problems, often in the fields of politics, economics, or business

      • a person or group with a lot of knowledge or expertise
        Describing someone or a group of people who possess a high level of intelligence, creativity, and critical thinking skills, often used in a positive or admiring way

      • to engage in deep, focused thinking or brainstorming
        Expressing the act of using one's mental faculties to come up with ideas or solutions, often in a collaborative setting or in a specific topic or subject area

    Examples of Think tank

    • The government has established a think tank to analyze and propose solutions to the country's economic challenges.

      A think tank is a group of experts or researchers who come together to generate ideas and provide advice on specific issues. In this example, the government has created a think tank to address economic issues that the country is facing.

    • The company's research and development department is considered a think tank for innovative ideas in their industry.

      This example shows how a specific department or group within an organization can be referred to as a think tank because of their expertise and ability to generate new ideas.

    • The political party has formed a think tank to develop policies that will appeal to younger voters.

      This example demonstrates how a think tank can be created to address a specific target audience or demographic.

    • The non-profit organization has set up a think tank to explore ways to combat climate change.

      This example shows how a think tank can be established to tackle a significant social or environmental issue.

    • The university's economics department has a renowned think tank that regularly publishes research and policy recommendations.

      This example illustrates how a university or academic institution can have a think tank associated with one of its departments or faculties.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "think tank" has multiple meanings, all revolving around the concept of generating and sharing ideas and expertise. It can refer to organizations or groups that specialize in research and analysis, individuals or groups with a high level of intelligence and knowledge, and the act of deep thinking or brainstorming.

    In all its meanings, "think tank" highlights the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills in various contexts. It also emphasizes the value of collaboration and sharing ideas to come up with innovative solutions.

    Origin of "Think tank"

    The origin of the idiom "think tank" can be traced back to the early 20th century, where it was first used to describe a group of experts and intellectuals who came together to discuss and provide solutions to complex issues. The term gained popularity during World War II when many organizations were formed to generate ideas and strategies for the war effort.

    The term "think tank" was first used in a 1959 book by William H. Whyte, titled "The Organization Man." In the book, Whyte describes a group of experts and intellectuals as a "think tank," highlighting their role in providing solutions and ideas for society's problems.

    Since then, the term has become widely used in various contexts, such as politics, economics, and business, to describe organizations or groups that specialize in research and analysis. Today, "think tank" is a commonly used idiom to highlight the importance of critical thinking and expertise in problem-solving.