- To introduce an idea, suggestion, or suspicion subtly, hoping it will grow or develop in someone else's mind over time, often without them realizing its origin.
Explanation
Origin
- A direct metaphor from gardening or agriculture.
- You plant a small seed in the ground, and with time and the right conditions, it grows into a plant.
- Similarly, you introduce a small idea (seed) into someone's thoughts, hoping it will take root and develop into a larger thought, belief, or action later on.
- It implies subtlety and patience, letting the idea grow organically in the other person's mind.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Drop a hint
- Nudge someone (towards an idea)
More Manipulative Connotations:
- Incept (From the movie Inception, planting an idea deeply)
- Subtly influence
Milder/Formal:
- Introduce a concept for consideration
- Subtly propose an idea
- Gently guide thinking
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal to semi-formal.
- Common in discussions about strategy, persuasion, or influencing others subtly.
- Can sometimes have slightly manipulative connotations, depending on the context and intent.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Entirely metaphorical. Reinforce that it means introducing an idea subtly, like planting a literal seed that grows over time, not physically planting anything.
Examples
- I didn't push the idea, just planted a seed about maybe taking a vacation next year.
- He kept mentioning the benefits of electric cars, planting a seed in my mind.
- She planted a seed of doubt about his loyalty with a casual comment.
Dialogue
Chris: I really want the team to consider using the new software, but the manager is resistant.
Dana: Instead of arguing for it directly, maybe just mention casually how a competitor boosted their efficiency using something similar. Just plant a seed.
Chris: Hmm, that's clever. Let him think about it himself. Okay, I'll try that. Thanks!
Dana: Let me know if it grows!
Social Media Examples
- Blog Post: How to Plant a Seed with Your Boss for That Promotion You Want
- Tweet: Just planted a seed with my partner about getting a dog by 'accidentally' leaving cute puppy videos playing... wish me luck! 🐶 #OperationPuppy
- Forum Comment (Marketing): Content marketing is often about planting a seed – providing value now so customers think of you later. #MarketingStrategy
Response Patterns
If someone says they planted a seed:
- Curiosity: Oh yeah? What did you suggest?, Do you think it will work?
- Understanding/Acknowledgement: Ah, subtle approach., Good idea.
If you realize someone planted a seed in your mind:
- Realization: Ah, now I see what you were doing!, You planted that seed, didn't you?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone says they planted a seed:
- Discussing the desired outcome or hope for the idea's growth.
- Waiting to see if the idea develops in the other person's mind.
After realizing a seed was planted in your mind:
- Reflecting on how the idea grew.
- Potentially confronting the person who planted it (playfully or seriously).
Conversation Starter
- No. Usually describes a subtle action taken within a social interaction or strategy.
Intonation
- Often said thoughtfully or strategically. Stress can be on PLANT a SEED. PLANT a SEED.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood and used across generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.