I understand the public

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I understand the public" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing your comprehension of the opinions, feelings, or needs of the general population. Example: "As a politician, I believe it is crucial to say, 'I understand the public' to connect with voters and address their concerns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"I understand the public outcry," he continued.

The New York Times

"I understand the public outcry," William C. Bell, the commissioner of the city's Administration for Children's Services, said of the Warren case.

The New York Times

"I understand the public misunderstanding of those things and how that can be difficult for them to understand how we get to those questions," Goodell told the BBC's Richard Conway in London in an effort to explain how the league came up with incomplete information when it investigated and suspended Brown for one game at a time when it fines players for touchdown celebrations.

The Washington Post

I understand the public's apprehension.

The New York Times

"I understand the public's frustration.

The New York Times

Then Goodell told the BBC over the weekend that the public is simply too dumb to grasp the greatness in which the league handled the Brown case: "I understand the public's misunderstanding of those things and how that can be difficult for them to understand how we get to those positions," Goodell said.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

She said that would be true even if some of the people she had to criticise were close to her. "That is the way I was trained," she insisted, but added, "I absolutely understand the public do not believe it".

The Guardian

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

The Guardian

I can understand the public thinking that it's strange that we allow doped athletes to compete again".

The New York Times - Sports

I completely understand the public relations value and the legislation influencing significance of having a multi-starred, combat-decorated veteran in the top spot at VA, but I don't believe that rank hath its privilege when it comes to the daily operations of the vast complex of VA facilities and services.

Huffington Post

From what I understand, the general public cannot get enough Paralympic sport.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, consider more precise alternatives like "I am aware of public sentiment" to avoid sounding too informal.

Common error

Avoid using "I understand the public" repeatedly in formal documents. Vary your language to maintain reader engagement and demonstrate a nuanced understanding by using alternatives like "I recognize public concerns".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I understand the public" functions as a declarative statement expressing comprehension of public sentiment. It is used to convey empathy or agreement with the general population's views. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I understand the public" is a grammatically correct and acceptable expression used to convey comprehension and empathy towards the general public's opinions and concerns. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, supported by examples primarily from news and media sources. While not overly formal, it’s suitable for neutral contexts, expressing an acknowledgment of public sentiment. More formal alternatives, such as "I am aware of public opinion", may be considered for academic or highly professional settings. Avoiding overuse and ensuring variety in language are key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I comprehend public sentiment

Replaces "understand" with "comprehend" to denote a formal understanding of public feelings.

I grasp the public's viewpoint

Uses "grasp" instead of "understand" to show a quick, intuitive understanding.

I am aware of public opinion

Changes the verb to "aware" for a more passive understanding.

I recognize the public's concerns

Focuses on acknowledging public worries rather than general understanding.

I appreciate the public's perspective

Emphasizes valuing the public's opinion, rather than merely understanding it.

I am cognizant of public sentiment

Uses "cognizant" for a more formal and informed awareness.

I am attuned to the public's feelings

Suggests a sensitivity and responsiveness to public emotions.

I am mindful of the public's views

Highlights being considerate and attentive to public opinions.

I take into account public opinion

Indicates a deliberate consideration of public views in decision-making.

I am sensitive to public concerns

Implies emotional intelligence and empathy towards public issues.

FAQs

What does it mean to say "I understand the public"?

Saying "I understand the public" generally means you recognize and comprehend the opinions, feelings, and concerns of the general population. It implies empathy and awareness, especially in roles dealing with public sentiment.

How can I use "I understand the public" in a sentence?

You can use "I understand the public" when acknowledging or responding to public sentiment. For example: "As a politician, I believe it is crucial to say, "I understand the public" to connect with voters and address their concerns."

What can I say instead of "I understand the public"?

You can use alternatives like "I comprehend public sentiment", "I grasp the public's viewpoint", or "I am aware of public opinion" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "I understand the public" or "I understand public opinion"?

Both are acceptable, but "I understand the public" focuses more on understanding the people themselves, while "I understand public opinion" focuses on understanding their collective viewpoints. The choice depends on the specific emphasis you want to convey.