I entirely understand

USAGE SUMMARY

"I entirely understand" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are trying to assure someone that you are aware of a situation or comprehend what has been said. For example, "I'm sorry that happened to you. I entirely understand why you might be upset."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

I entirely understand and respect her position.

The Guardian - Opinion

I entirely understand that," he said.

The Guardian - Books

"I entirely understand the public anger that has erupted over expenses.

The Guardian

I entirely understand the impulse to say screw it and have another piece of cake.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I deeply regret the comments and I entirely understand the offence they will cause.

The Guardian

I entirely understand the democratic case for a public vote, indeed I expect to be voting for one this week.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Though he was interested in my father, Barney didn't seem to grasp our connection, and I'm not sure I entirely understood it either.

The New York Times - Books

I did not understand a single word of Silviu Purcarete's Titus Andronicus performed in Romanian, but I entirely understood its nightmarish vision.

The Guardian

I can't say that I entirely understood why she was handcuffed to the bed, or why that would be a thing she would agree to, so maybe the rest was a mystery to me.

The Guardian - Books

England manager Hodgson said: "While I'm disappointed, I can entirely understand Steven's situation and can have no complaints given the incredible service he has given to his country".

BBC

The England manager said: "While I'm disappointed in the decision I can entirely understand Steven's situation and can have no complaints given the incredible service he has given to his country.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I entirely understand", follow up with a brief explanation of what you understand. This demonstrates that your understanding is genuine and not just a platitude.

Common error

Avoid saying "I entirely understand" if you don't truly grasp the situation. It can come across as insincere and damage your credibility. Instead, ask clarifying questions to gain a better understanding before responding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I entirely understand" serves as an acknowledgment of comprehension and empathy. It indicates that the speaker not only hears but also comprehends the information, situation, or feelings being conveyed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I entirely understand" is a commonly used phrase to express complete comprehension and empathy. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, particularly in news, media, and professional settings. While it's a valuable tool for building rapport, it's crucial to ensure genuine understanding before using it, to avoid insincerity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I completely comprehend

Uses "completely comprehend" for a more formal and emphatic understanding.

I fully grasp the situation

Emphasizes understanding the whole situation, using "grasp" for comprehension.

I see exactly what you mean

Expresses clear visual or conceptual understanding.

I take your point completely

Specifically acknowledges and accepts someone's argument or viewpoint.

I thoroughly appreciate that

Shifts the focus to appreciation, implying understanding and valuing something.

I am fully aware of that

Highlights awareness and knowledge of a specific fact or situation.

I am in complete agreement

Focuses on agreeing with a statement, implying understanding of its content.

That is perfectly clear to me

Indicates clarity and ease of understanding.

I am cognizant of that fact

Uses more formal language to express awareness and understanding of a fact.

I get the picture

Offers a more informal way of expressing understanding, implying grasping the general idea.

FAQs

How can I use "I entirely understand" in a sentence?

Use "I entirely understand" to express complete comprehension of a situation or statement. For example, "I see you're frustrated, and "I entirely understand" why you feel that way".

What phrases are similar to "I entirely understand"?

Similar phrases include "I completely comprehend", "I fully grasp the situation", or "I thoroughly appreciate that".

Is it better to say "I fully understand" or "I entirely understand"?

Both "I fully understand" and "I entirely understand" are correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on personal preference, although some might perceive "I entirely understand" as slightly more formal.

When is it inappropriate to use "I entirely understand"?

It's inappropriate to use "I entirely understand" if you don't genuinely understand the situation or the other person's perspective. Using it without real comprehension can seem insincere.