a glimpse of understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

"a glimpse of understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to refer to a momentary understanding of a concept, idea, or similar. For example, "He got only a glimpse of understanding of the problem before quickly forgetting."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

A glimpse of our lack of understanding of the breadth of T cell reactivity becomes apparent when analysing the MHC restriction of the epitopes identified to date.

Cancer Immunology, Immunotherapy

I can attest to the power of Sufi practices to provide a glimpse of the "peace which passeth understanding" which is at the core of all religious experience.

Huffington Post

The folklore of the cursed rocks, in this view, is a coping strategy, a way of understanding the glimpse of the Late Triassic that emerges just after the Howard Johnson on Route 66.

The New Yorker

Consequently, analysis of the expression of CXCL10 combined with the knowledge of their functions could facilitate the understanding and allow us to take a glimpse of the overall picture of CXCL10 gene in Ujumqin sheep.

BioMed Research International

Catching a glimpse of items left behind, observing the lived state – weathered, graffitied – of street signs, understanding the landscapes that define place: these are the joys of walking.

The Guardian - Opinion

Not only has this led to an increased understanding of individual genome variation, but it has given us a glimpse of the future of genomics.

Genome Medicine

A glimpse of the future, perhaps?

Independent

Again, we get a glimpse of it.

The New Yorker

Van Nistelrooy barely got a glimpse of goal.

Independent

A glimpse of Tiger Woods's future?

The New York Times - Arts

Here is a glimpse of the future.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a glimpse of understanding" to convey that the comprehension is not complete or thorough, but rather a quick or partial insight.

Common error

Avoid using "a glimpse of understanding" when you mean a comprehensive or thorough understanding. This phrase specifically implies a partial or initial understanding, not a full grasp of the subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a glimpse of understanding" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb (e.g., 'to get', 'to catch') or the subject of a sentence. It describes a brief or partial comprehension.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a glimpse of understanding" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a brief or incomplete comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While it's appropriate for various contexts, it's essential to recognize that it implies a partial understanding, not a complete grasp. Consider alternatives like "fleeting understanding" or "brief insight" depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey. While the search data provided limited examples, the phrase is valid and can be employed effectively when describing an initial or quick comprehension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fleeting understanding

Emphasizes the transient nature of the understanding.

brief insight

Highlights the sudden and quick nature of the comprehension.

partial comprehension

Focuses on the incomplete aspect of the understanding.

quick grasp

Underscores the speed at which the understanding is achieved.

inkling of knowledge

Implies a vague or initial sense of knowing something.

hint of realization

Suggests a subtle or indirect coming to awareness.

momentary awareness

Highlights the fleeting and temporal aspect of understanding.

superficial understanding

Indicates a shallow and surface-level comprehension.

initial perception

Emphasizes the starting point of forming an understanding.

preliminary insight

Suggests an early or introductory level of understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "a glimpse of understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "a glimpse of understanding" to describe a situation where someone gains a brief or incomplete comprehension of something. For example, "He caught "a glimpse of understanding" during the lecture, but needed more clarification."

What's the difference between "a glimpse of understanding" and "complete understanding"?

"A glimpse of understanding" implies a brief, partial, or initial comprehension, while "complete understanding" suggests a thorough and comprehensive grasp of the subject. They are contrasting levels of comprehension.

Are there synonyms for "a glimpse of understanding" that I can use?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "fleeting understanding", "brief insight", or "partial comprehension" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a glimpse of understanding" formal or informal?

The phrase "a glimpse of understanding" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and tone of the writing.