a narrower understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a narrower understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a limited or more specific interpretation of a concept or idea. Example: "The study provided a narrower understanding of the issue, focusing only on the economic factors involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Thus, with a narrower understanding of civic integration as a certain set of integration requirements, we run the risk of losing sight of why – i.e., according to which selection criteria – these requirements and indicators were chosen in the first place.

Comparative Migration Studies

Going beyond a narrower understanding of language and taking a performatory stance on doing language, "Communication = Languaging = Meaning-making" (Bagga-Gupta and Dahlberg 2018) irrespective of the number of language-varieties or language-modalities (oral, written, signed, etc).

Bandung: Journal of the Global South

It must either be shown to directly cause actual physical violence to others (e.g., murder, rape, assault, battery), on a narrower understanding of "harm"; or to deliberately or negligently violate sufficiently important interests or rights of others, on a broader, interest-based conception of "harm".

SEP

Eventually, this understanding led to a reluctance of researchers to address the link between science, technology and industrial development, a reliance of policymakers on market mechanisms to support technological developments and a narrower understanding of innovation which was limited to R&D exclusively.

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

No, it is not, and to see it as such betrays a narrow understanding of today's interdependent world.

The Guardian - Opinion

It also flies against the prevailing headwinds of individualism, nationalism and a narrow understanding of self-preservation.

The Guardian

The artist also believes that people in marginalized communities feel that arbiters of mainstream culture have a narrow understanding of who they are.

The New York Times

However, these add up to political disdain only if you embrace a narrow understanding of the political, centered on the offices and mechanisms of the state.

The New Yorker

Let's be honest: if cultural value is dictated by an entrenched elite, is it any surprise that we have such a narrow understanding of what and who we are?

The Guardian

Let's be honest: if cultural value is dictated by an entrenched elite, is it any surprise that we have such a narrow understanding of what and who we are?" Younis's own record at the Bush speaks for itself.

The Guardian

While there was no indication these were anything but expressions of broad Christian views, the Rev. Philip Eichner, the school's president, described the family as possessing a narrow understanding of Christianity, bordering on fundamentalism.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a narrower understanding", ensure the context clearly indicates what the broader understanding encompasses, providing a frame of reference for the limitation.

Common error

Avoid using "a narrower understanding" without specifying what the generally accepted or wider understanding is. Failing to do so can leave the audience confused about the point of comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrower understanding" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as an object or complement within a sentence. It modifies the noun "understanding" with the adjective "narrower," indicating a limited or more specific interpretation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a narrower understanding" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate a more specific or limited interpretation of a concept. It's most frequently encountered in scientific and news contexts. While considered correct by Ludwig AI, it's crucial to provide context about what constitutes the broader understanding to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "a limited grasp" or ""a specific interpretation"" can be used depending on the intended nuance. Remember to specify the wider understanding in relation to the narrower one for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited grasp

This suggests a restricted comprehension, highlighting the deficiency in understanding.

a specific interpretation

Focuses on the definite and precise character of understanding.

a restricted perspective

This focuses on a limited viewpoint or way of seeing things.

a superficial appreciation

This implies a shallow or surface-level understanding, lacking depth.

a simplified conception

This suggests an oversimplified or less complex understanding.

a basic awareness

This indicates a rudimentary or initial level of understanding.

a circumscribed knowledge

Emphasizes the boundaries or limitations of what is known.

a concise interpretation

This emphasizes a brief and succinct understanding, possibly lacking nuance.

a particular interpretation

Highlights a specific, and possibly idiosyncratic, understanding.

a controlled awareness

Shows understanding that is deliberately restrained.

FAQs

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

You can use "a narrower understanding" to indicate a limited or more specific interpretation of a concept. For example: "The study adopted "a narrower understanding" of the term 'innovation', focusing solely on technological advancements."

What are some alternatives to "a narrower understanding"?

Alternatives include "a limited perspective", "a specific interpretation", or "a basic awareness" depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "a narrower understanding" and "a limited understanding"?

"A narrower understanding" implies a more focused or specific interpretation, while "a limited understanding" suggests a deficiency or lack of comprehension in general. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize focus or lack of overall knowledge.

Is it always negative to have "a narrower understanding"?

Not necessarily. While it can imply a limited perspective, ""a narrower understanding"" can also be beneficial when focusing on specific aspects of a complex issue for the purpose of detailed analysis or targeted solutions.