a clear grasp of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear grasp of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's understanding or comprehension of a concept or topic. For example: "John demonstrated a clear grasp of the topics discussed during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

This suggests a clear grasp of priorities.

The Economist

He has "a clear grasp" of foreign policy.

The Economist

But in this case, finally, Bloomberg shows a clear grasp of the political situation.

The New Yorker

Until they have a clear grasp of the technology's benefits, they won't move to the next buying stage.

Harvard Business Review

Do they have a clear grasp of how their actions help the company achieve its strategic priorities?

Harvard Business Review

Yet it has a soulful heart and a clear grasp of its rarefied milieu (Manhattan upper-level moneyed academia).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

First of all, make sure they have a clear grasp on client projects.

Forbes

Fortunately, Israel's prime minister, Ehud Olmert, is now displaying a clearer grasp of such realities than President Bush has mustered.

The New York Times

Having a clearer grasp of these mental models can help business leaders to work with others, both inside and outside their organizations, to build more sustainable businesses.

Harvard Business Review

Having a clearer grasp of such mental models can help business leaders to work with others, both inside and outside their organizations, to build more sustainable businesses.

Harvard Business Review

It suggests that we could make the world better simply by having a clearer grasp of reality — by deactivating those brain implants, or their ideological equivalent.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that the subject having "a clear grasp of" something is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a clear grasp of" to describe physical holding or manipulation. This phrase is reserved for intellectual understanding, not physical actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear grasp of" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes the ability to understand something comprehensively. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Academia

6%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clear grasp of" is a versatile phrase used to express thorough understanding. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal settings. While it should be avoided in physical contexts, mastering its usage can significantly improve the precision of your writing. Remember to consider closely related phrases for nuance, but also to rely on Ludwig to ensure your message is well received.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thorough understanding of

Replaces "grasp" with "understanding", emphasizing depth of knowledge.

a firm understanding of

Substitutes "clear grasp" with "firm understanding", highlighting the solidity of comprehension.

a solid understanding of

Similar to "firm understanding", but with a nuance of reliability and strength.

a comprehensive understanding of

Emphasizes the completeness and broadness of the understanding.

a good command of

Focuses on the ability to use or control something due to understanding.

a strong awareness of

Shifts from understanding to a conscious recognition or perception.

a complete knowledge of

Replaces "grasp" with "knowledge", focusing on factual information.

a precise insight into

Emphasizes a deep and accurate understanding, like a sudden revelation.

an astute perception of

Highlights a keen and discerning understanding.

a lucid appreciation of

Suggests an understanding that is easily understood and valued.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear grasp of" in a sentence?

You can use "a clear grasp of" to describe someone's understanding of a subject. For example, "The student demonstrated "a clear grasp of" the material."

What are some alternatives to "a clear grasp of"?

Some alternatives include "a thorough understanding of", "a firm understanding of", or "a solid understanding of", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a clear grasp on" or "a clear grasp of"?

"A clear grasp of" is the correct and more widely accepted form. "A clear grasp on" is less common and can sound awkward in many contexts.

What does it mean to have "a clear grasp of" something?

To have "a clear grasp of" something means that you have a solid and easily understandable comprehension of it, indicating you understand the details and implications.