- An organization or group of experts engaged in research and advocacy on specific topics, often related to policy, strategy, technology, or social issues.
- They generate ideas, analysis, and recommendations.
Explanation
Origin
- The term emerged during World War II, possibly referring to secure rooms where plans and strategies were discussed (tank implying a sealed, protected space for thinking).
- It gained wider usage in the mid-20th century to describe organizations (often non-profit) dedicated to studying problems and proposing solutions, particularly in government and policy circles.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
While there isn't direct slang, related concepts might be phrased informally:
- Idea factory (More casual, less common)
- Policy wonks (Refers to the people, often used slightly humorously or pejoratively)
- Strategy group
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in formal and informal contexts when discussing policy, research, or expert groups.
- Common in news, academic, and political discussions.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Learners might mistakenly think it's a place for general thinking or meditation, rather than a structured organization focused on research and advocacy.
- The potential political leaning or agenda of a specific think tank is often crucial context.
Examples
- He works for a conservative think tank in Washington D.C.
- The government commissioned a study from an environmental think tank.
- Several influential think tanks published reports on healthcare reform.
Dialogue
Person A: Where does Sarah work now?
Person B: She joined a think tank that focuses on international relations and security policy.
Person A: Wow, that sounds serious. Are they well-known?
Person B: Yeah, they're quite respected. They advise government officials sometimes.
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: Influential think tank releases new paper urging caution on AI regulation. Link: [URL] #AI #Policy #Tech
- LinkedIn Profile: Senior Fellow at a leading economic think tank.
- News Headline: Report from Bipartisan Think Tank Offers Solutions for Infrastructure Funding.
Response Patterns
- Oh, interesting. What area do they focus on?
- Are they generally considered left-leaning or right-leaning? (Common question due to political nature of many think tanks)
- Have they published anything recently?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone mentions a think tank:
- Asking about its specific focus or political leaning.
- Inquiring about its influence or reputation.
- Asking about recent reports or findings.
- If someone works there: What kind of research do you do?
Conversation Starter
- Can be, especially in contexts related to politics, policy, or specific industries. Did you see that report from the [Name] think tank about climate change?
Intonation
- Neutral pronunciation, equal stress on think and tank.
- THINK TANK
Generation Differences
- More familiar to those interested in politics, policy, or academia. Younger generations might be less familiar unless they follow specific issues closely.
Regional Variations
- Widely used term, particularly prominent in countries with many such organizations (like the US and UK).