Understood: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when discussing basic acknowledgment or general awareness of information. It does not imply deep insight.

• I understood the directions you gave me.
• He understood the rules of the game.

Used when referring to a deeper, more thorough understanding of complex ideas or subjects.

• She finally comprehended the complex theories in her biology class.
• It took him years to fully comprehend the intricacies of the market.

Implies obtaining a clear and often intuitive understanding of a concept or situation, sometimes with a sense of sudden realization.

• He finally grasped the essence of the problem.
• Once she grasped the basic principles of the game, she improved quickly.

Rarely used in modern English, it implies formal or philosophical recognition or awareness of something.

• The ancient philosopher cognized the nature of existence.
• Through meditation, he cognized the true meaning of peace.

Commonly used in everyday conversations to indicate that a person has heard and processed the information. It is neutral and versatile, suitable for both formal and informal settings.

• I understood what you were trying to say.
• Is everything understood?

Indicates a deeper level of understanding, often used in academic or intellectual contexts. It implies not only knowing information but also fully understanding its meaning and implications.

• She comprehended the complexities of quantum physics after years of dedicated research.
• The intricacies of the novel were well comprehended by literary critics.

Used to imply a firm understanding of something, often after some effort. Can be used both in casual and formal situations; it may sometimes suggest initial difficulty in understanding.

• He finally grasped the basic concepts of calculus after several tutoring sessions.
• The detective grasped the significance of the evidence.

Rarely used in everyday language. More common in philosophical or academic discussions, indicating that someone has become aware or mindful of a concept.

• He cognized the meaning of existentialism through intense study.
• The phenomenon was first cognized in the late 19th century.