a basic comprehension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a basic comprehension" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a basic understanding or understanding of the main points of a topic or idea. Example: "Before moving on to more advanced concepts, make sure you have a basic comprehension of the material covered in the first chapter." In this example, "a basic comprehension" is used to indicate a general understanding of the material covered in the first chapter before moving on to more complex ideas.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

But he must first pass a basic comprehension test: learn the meaning of accountability.

The Guardian - Opinion

For these and other reasons, it is important that sustainability managers have a basic comprehension of environmental laws and are able to understand the language of the law.

Columbia University

The heart of the ESP unit is the submersible pump and the design and analysis of the whole ESP system cannot be understood without a basic comprehension of the operation of the pump.

Electrical Submersible Pumps Manual Design, Operations, and Maintenance

Such a basic comprehension of the direct effects of radiation may have implications in the design of new chemotherapeutic and radiosensitizing drugs, as well as in the development of more efficient protocols in chemoradiation therapy.

Chemical Physics Letters

But at the risk of being a curmudgeon, and in the interest of 3-year-olds everywhere who are reaching for a basic comprehension of how the universe is put together and where they stand, I think the astronomers should take a page from the lawyers and jurists we're hearing so much from these days.

The New York Times

A basic comprehension of plastic design method is adequate for designing yielding members in the structures designed by PBPD method.

International Journal of Advanced Structural Engineering (IJASE)

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Meersma has been a Bookshare client since elementary school, where his disability was so severe that basic comprehension was a challenge.

TechCrunch

Group mentality works both ways, and can be a great form to give agency to people who feel they have none, but it can just as quickly turn and refute basic comprehension and become an aggressor.

Vice

This means that the type of reading called Basic Comprehension could possibly be a distinct kind of reading as compared to Reading to Learn and Reading to Integrate, both of which could be assumed to tap more similar abilities (somewhat different from what was tapped by Basic Comprehension) for having a relatively high correlation with each other.

Language Testing in Asia

For example, if an exam is likely to be filled with multiple-choice questions primarily testing recall and basic comprehension, students might choose a surface-learning approach, spending study time memorizing facts, processes, and formulas.

CBE Life Sciences Education

To be honest, the initial trial of a textbook-less class was too overwhelming: students didn't have basic comprehension of the scientific method or the ability to identify an argument.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, ensure that the subject possessing "a basic comprehension" is clearly identified. For instance, specify 'students require a basic comprehension of algebra' instead of just 'a basic comprehension is needed'.

Common error

Avoid assuming your audience possesses "a basic comprehension" of a topic. Briefly recap fundamental concepts to ensure everyone is on the same page, especially when writing for a diverse audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a basic comprehension" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It refers to the fundamental level of understanding or knowledge one possesses about a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a basic comprehension" denotes a fundamental understanding of a subject, serving as a noun phrase that is grammatically correct and generally neutral in tone. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use is appropriate across varied contexts, including science, news, and academia. While alternatives like "a basic understanding" or "a rudimentary grasp" exist, "a basic comprehension" offers a clear and direct way to express the idea of grasping essential concepts. When using this phrase, consider your audience's existing knowledge and clearly define the subject to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a basic understanding

Focuses more on the state of knowing, rather than the act of grasping information.

a foundational knowledge

Highlights the importance of basic information as a base for further learning.

a rudimentary grasp

Implies a more initial and less firm understanding.

a primary insight

Focuses on gaining an initial understanding or realization.

an elementary perception

Emphasizes an initial and perhaps incomplete understanding.

a working knowledge

Suggests a level of understanding sufficient for practical application.

a simple awareness

Suggests a more passive and less engaged level of understanding.

a surface-level appreciation

Indicates an understanding that doesn't delve into deeper complexities.

a beginner's acquaintance

Implies an initial and superficial level of familiarity.

a general idea

Suggests a vague and not necessarily detailed understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "a basic comprehension" in a sentence?

You can use "a basic comprehension" to indicate a fundamental understanding of a topic. For example, "Before starting the project, ensure you have "a basic comprehension" of the requirements".

What can I say instead of "a basic comprehension"?

You can use alternatives like "a basic understanding", "a rudimentary grasp", or "a simple awareness" depending on the context.

Is it necessary to have "a basic comprehension" before learning more advanced topics?

Yes, having "a basic comprehension" is often essential for building a solid foundation. Without it, understanding more complex concepts can be challenging.

What's the difference between "a basic comprehension" and "a thorough understanding"?

"A basic comprehension" refers to a fundamental grasp of the main points, while "a thorough understanding" implies a deep and detailed knowledge of the subject.