a greater understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a greater understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an increased level of comprehension of a topic, concept, or relationship. For example, "Through my research and discussion, I've gained a greater understanding of the challenges faced by single parents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is no effort to reach a greater understanding.

The Guardian - Opinion

My research gave me a greater understanding of Fenton's work.

The New York Times

I mean, I have a greater understanding now.

The New Yorker

This led to a greater understanding of non-Christian religions.

The New York Times - Arts

Gain a greater understanding of current trends in finance.

Stanford University

We have a greater understanding of how nature works.

The New York Times

A greater understanding of the reasons for this is required.

Cancer Treatment Reviews

"The Sharks want to have a greater understanding of the game".

The New York Times - Sports

Coxell believes encouraging a greater understanding of emotional intelligence among his staff has benefited the firm.

The Guardian - Money

And, despite its flaws, the Settlement's exhibition does much to spur a greater understanding of Jamestown.

The New York Times - Arts

You're a journalist looking to develop a greater understanding of freedom of information laws for investigations.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a greater understanding" when you want to emphasize an increase in comprehension or knowledge about a specific topic. For example, "After the course, students demonstrated a greater understanding of the subject matter."

Common error

Avoid using "a greater understanding" interchangeably with phrases that imply emotional connection or agreement, such as "empathy" or "agreement". "Understanding" focuses on intellectual comprehension, not necessarily emotional alignment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a greater understanding" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across diverse contexts, indicating that it clearly communicates enhanced comprehension.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

13%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a greater understanding" is a versatile and commonly used noun phrase that effectively conveys an increase in comprehension or knowledge. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and frequent appearance in diverse sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and academic journals demonstrate its widespread acceptance. While alternatives such as "a deeper comprehension" or "an enhanced awareness" offer nuanced variations, "a greater understanding" remains a reliable choice for expressing improved cognitive grasp. Be mindful to use it in contexts where intellectual comprehension is the key focus.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a deeper comprehension

Emphasizes the thoroughness and intensity of understanding.

an enhanced awareness

Highlights an improved or increased perception and consciousness.

a more profound insight

Suggests a deeper level of intuitive understanding.

an expanded knowledge

Focuses on the increase in factual information and awareness.

a clearer perspective

Implies improved clarity and viewpoint on a subject.

a more complete grasp

Highlights a thorough and comprehensive understanding.

an improved perception

Focuses on enhancement in sensory understanding and awareness.

a refined interpretation

Suggests a more accurate and sophisticated understanding.

a heightened sensitivity

Emphasizes increased awareness and emotional understanding.

a wider appreciation

Focuses on a broadened understanding and positive regard.

FAQs

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

You can use "a greater understanding" to describe an improved level of comprehension. For example, "The research provided "a greater understanding" of the disease".

What are some alternatives to saying "a greater understanding"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a deeper comprehension", "an enhanced awareness", or "a more profound insight", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a greater understanding" or "a better understanding"?

Both "a greater understanding" and "a better understanding" are correct, but "a greater understanding" often implies a more significant increase in comprehension.

What's the difference between "a greater understanding" and "a greater appreciation"?

"A greater understanding" refers to an increase in intellectual comprehension, while "a greater appreciation" suggests an increase in positive regard or value.