What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
construe
Example
I'm trying to construe the meaning of this poem. [construe: verb]
Example
Her silence was construed as agreement. [construed: past participle]
understand
Example
I don't understand how to solve this math problem. [understand: verb]
Example
She has a deep understanding of human psychology. [understanding: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Understand is more commonly used than construe in everyday language. Understand is a common and versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while construe is less common and typically used in more formal or specialized settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between construe and understand?
Construe is more formal than understand and is often used in legal or academic contexts. Understand is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
