a concrete understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a concrete understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a clear, solid, and well-defined comprehension of a subject or concept. Example: "After the training session, the team left with a concrete understanding of the new software."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"In order to hold a discussion, you have to have some subject for it, a plan, a concrete understanding of what the other side wants," he said.

The New York Times

But as in the past, Russia did not rule out further negotiations over the American missile proposal, saying officials still await "a concrete understanding" of how and why Washington plans to supplant the ABM treaty.

The New York Times

"In order to hold a discussion, you have to have some subject for it, a plan, a concrete understanding of what the other side wants," said Sergei B. Ivanov, the Russian defense minister.

The New York Times

In case you weren't already alarmed by the barrage of state laws and regulations aimed at curtailing women's constitutionally protected right to an abortion, we now have a concrete understanding of their actual impact.

The New York Times

However, a concrete understanding of such software is required to ensure correct operation and use [14, 15].

Insights into Imaging

Today's teens may be equipped with a sophisticated SAT vocabulary, small nimble fingers able to tweet 140 characters in seconds and even a concrete understanding of advanced calculus.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

It is expected that future activity at Meakan-dake volcano will provide an opportunity for obtaining a more concrete understanding of the precursory deformation source below the Pon-Machineshiri crater.

Earth, Planets and Space

While it is a key miRNA for breast cancer, a more concrete understanding of its role in metastatic cancer and different breast cancer subtypes is needed before it can be utilized in clinical applications.

Nano-Micro Letters

This will produce a more concrete understanding of the feasibility of installing an ITS.

European Transport Research Review

He told me that he hoped people would come away from the event having connected the Hubble imagery they'd see — "these stunning, breathtaking works of art" — to a more concrete understanding that these things actually exist, and to "the concept of a dramatic universe".

The New Yorker

"There must be a clear, concrete understanding that before Japan would join the T.P.P. negotiations that those negotiations would result in a real change in Japan's policies and practices," Mr. Levin said, referring to the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a concrete understanding" when you want to emphasize that the comprehension is not vague or abstract, but solid and well-defined. For example, "After the workshop, participants gained a concrete understanding of the new policies."

Common error

Avoid using "a concrete understanding" when a more general term like 'awareness' or 'knowledge' would suffice. The phrase is best reserved for situations where clarity and depth of understanding are specifically important.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a concrete understanding" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes the state of comprehension that is well-defined and solid, not abstract or vague. As Ludwig AI explains, it is usable in written English to describe a clear, solid, and well-defined comprehension.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a concrete understanding" is a grammatically sound and usable noun phrase that signifies a clear, solid, and well-defined comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. While not as frequent as simpler terms like 'knowledge', it's particularly effective when you want to highlight the depth and clarity of understanding, as reflected in examples from News & Media and Science domains. The phrase is best used in neutral to formal registers and should be reserved for instances where a detailed and accurate comprehension is crucial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear comprehension

Focuses on the clarity and ease of understanding.

a firm grasp

Emphasizes a secure and solid understanding.

a solid grasp

Emphasizes the reliability of the understanding.

a definite comprehension

Highlights the precision and lack of ambiguity in the understanding.

a well-defined understanding

Stresses the clarity and distinctness of the understanding.

an explicit awareness

Stresses the clear and detailed consciousness of something.

a thorough appreciation

Implies a deep and complete understanding.

an accurate perception

Focuses on the correctness and truthfulness of the understanding.

a realistic assessment

Highlights the practicality and real-world applicability of the understanding.

a deep insight

Implies a profound and penetrating understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "a concrete understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "a concrete understanding" to emphasize that someone possesses a clear, solid, and well-defined comprehension of a particular subject or concept. For instance, "The training provided the employees with a concrete understanding of the new software."

What's a good alternative to "a concrete understanding"?

Depending on the context, you can replace "a concrete understanding" with alternatives such as "a clear comprehension", "a firm grasp", or "a solid grasp".

Is it better to say "a concrete understanding" or "a general understanding"?

"A concrete understanding" implies a detailed and well-defined comprehension, whereas "a general understanding" suggests a basic or superficial knowledge. The best choice depends on the depth of understanding you want to convey.

What does "a concrete understanding" imply about someone's knowledge?

Having "a concrete understanding" implies that someone's knowledge is not vague or abstract, but rather solid, precise, and based on detailed information or practical experience. It suggests a high level of comprehension.