understanding Definition
- 1knowledge about a subject, situation, or person
- 2sympathetic awareness or tolerance
- 3an informal agreement
Using understanding: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "understanding" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I have a good understanding of the situation.
Example
She showed great understanding towards my problems.
Example
We came to an understanding about the payment terms.
Example
He has a deep understanding of human nature.
understanding Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for understanding
Antonyms for understanding
Idioms Using understanding
to have an informal agreement or arrangement with someone
Example
They have an understanding that he will take care of the finances while she focuses on her career.
come to an understanding
to reach an agreement or resolution with someone
Example
After a long discussion, we finally came to an understanding about the project timeline.
Example
I think you got the wrong end of the stick - I didn't mean to offend you.
Phrases with understanding
an agreement or relationship in which two people or groups have the same understanding of something
Example
The couple had a mutual understanding that they would support each other's career goals.
beyond understanding
impossible to comprehend or explain
Example
The cruelty of the act was beyond understanding.
to be sympathetic or tolerant towards someone's situation or behavior
Example
I hope you can show some understanding towards his difficult circumstances.
Origins of understanding
from Old English 'understandan', meaning 'comprehend'
Summary: understanding in Brief
The term 'understanding' [ˌʌndərˈstændɪŋ] refers to knowledge or comprehension of a subject, situation, or person. It can also denote sympathetic awareness or tolerance, as well as informal agreements. Examples include 'I have a good understanding of the situation,' and 'She showed great understanding towards my problems.' Idioms like 'have an understanding' and 'come to an understanding' describe informal agreements or resolutions, while 'get the wrong end of the stick' means to misunderstand something.