Understand: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in everyday conversation and academic settings to indicate general comprehension.

• I understand your concerns about the project
• Can you help me understand this math problem?

Used in formal contexts and often implies a deeper level of understanding.

• It can be challenging to fully comprehend the complexities of quantum mechanics
• She struggled to comprehend his decision to quit

Often used when talking about understanding difficult or complex concepts. Can imply a strong and confident understanding.

• She was able to grasp the main principles of calculus quickly
• It's important to grasp the key points in an argument

Used in informal conversation to indicate a basic or general understanding. Sometimes implies that the understanding is not complete.

• I didn't catch every detail, but I get the drift of what you're saying
• You don't have to explain it all; I get the drift

This is a general term used to show that you comprehend or have knowledge about a subject or situation.

• I understand the math problem now.
• She understands the new policy.

This is used to describe the ability to deeply understand someone else's feelings or emotional state by putting yourself in their place.

• I can empathize with her grief; I lost my dog recently too.
• He really empathizes with refugees because his family went through a similar ordeal.

This phrase is used when you recognize similarities between yourself and someone else's experiences, feelings, or situation.

• I can relate to his struggles because I had a similar upbringing.
• Teenagers often find it hard to relate to older generations.

This phrase is used when someone is showing sympathy or tolerance toward someone else's feelings or situation.

• Please be understanding of her situation; she just lost her job.
• He is very understanding of people with disabilities.

Used in general situations to mean recognizing the meaning, significance, or nature of something. It is neutral in tone and widely applicable.

• I understand the instructions you gave me
• She tries to understand her friend's feelings

Typically used in more formal or academic contexts. It implies grasping the full meaning or significance of something, often after deep thought.

• She struggled to comprehend the complex theory
• He couldn't comprehend why his proposal was rejected

Can be used both literally (to hold tightly) and figuratively (to understand deeply). It often implies a firm or complete understanding.

• He cannot grasp the basic concepts of the subject
• She was finally able to grasp the true meaning of the poem

Informal and often used in casual conversations. It refers to becoming skilled at something after some practice.

• It took me a while to get the hang of driving
• Don't worry, you'll get the hang of it soon