understanding

[ˌʌndərˈstændɪŋ]

understanding Definition

• 1. knowledge about a subject, situation, or person
• 2. sympathetic awareness or tolerance
• 3. an 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

• comprehension
• grasp
• awareness
• insight
• perception

Antonyms for understanding

• ignorance
• misunderstanding

Idioms Using understanding

• have an 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.

• get the wrong end of the stick

  to misunderstand something

  Example

  I think you got the wrong end of the stick - I didn't mean to offend you.

Phrases with understanding

• mutual 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.

• show 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'

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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.