a proper understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

"a proper understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to refer to a thorough comprehension or perception of something. For example, "In order to form an opinion on the matter, it is important to have a proper understanding of all the facts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Indeed, gaining a proper understanding of it may be impossible.

The Guardian - Opinion

Currently a whole range of clichés block a proper understanding of what populism really is.

The Guardian - Opinion

Once we have gained a proper understanding of the problems the solution practically suggests itself.

The Guardian - Business

"But it doesn't mean they've developed a proper understanding or attitude toward it".

The New York Times

But adapting to climate change will require a proper understanding of how the climate will change.

The Guardian

What is needed, though, is a proper understanding of the past history of Britain - empire and all.

The Guardian - Opinion

The debate has turned into the question of "Should wolf-whistling be illegal?" without a proper understanding of Smart's ordeal.

Independent

Likewise, players are not valuable to fantasy owners outside of a proper understanding of their opportunity cost.

The New York Times

A proper understanding of these types of constitution requires the consideration of additional features of each type.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A proper understanding of income and expenditure theory requires some acquaintance with the concepts used in national income accounting.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But marketing material won't be enough to give you a proper understanding, warns Eleanor Tubby, graduate recruitment officer at Bird and Bird.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a proper understanding", consider whether the context implies a need for expertise, careful consideration, or specific knowledge. This phrase often suggests that a superficial understanding is insufficient.

Common error

Avoid using "a proper understanding" when a simpler term like "understanding" would suffice. Overusing the word "proper" can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or even condescending if the situation doesn't truly require deep or specialized knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a proper understanding" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "proper" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "understanding". It often serves as the subject or object of a verb, highlighting the importance or necessity of a specific level of comprehension. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a proper understanding" is a correct and frequently used phrase emphasizing the importance of a complete and accurate comprehension. According to Ludwig AI, its grammatical status is correct. It functions as a noun phrase and serves to persuade or inform, highlighting the value of in-depth knowledge. While its register leans towards neutral to formal, it's versatile enough for various contexts, though simpler alternatives like "good understanding" may be preferred in informal settings. Remember to use it when thoroughness and accuracy are key, but avoid overusing it to prevent sounding condescending. The phrase is especially prevalent in scientific, news, and encyclopedia contexts, as demonstrated by the examples identified by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a correct understanding

Replaces "proper" with "correct", emphasizing accuracy.

a thorough understanding

Emphasizes the depth and completeness of the understanding.

a solid comprehension

Replaces "understanding" with "comprehension", indicating a firm grasp of the subject.

a complete grasp

Uses "grasp" instead of "understanding", suggesting a firm hold on the concept.

an accurate perception

Shifts the focus to perception, highlighting the correctness of the viewpoint.

a clear awareness

Focuses on the clarity of the knowledge.

a valid interpretation

Highlights the legitimacy and correctness of the understanding.

an informed appreciation

Suggests an understanding that leads to a deeper appreciation.

a deep insight

Emphasizes the profoundness and penetrating nature of the understanding.

a true appreciation

Highlights genuineness of the comprehension.

FAQs

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

"A proper understanding" is used to emphasize the importance of a complete and accurate comprehension of a topic. For example: "To make an informed decision, one must have "a proper understanding" of the risks involved."

What are some alternatives to "a proper understanding"?

Alternatives include "a correct understanding", "a thorough understanding", or "a solid comprehension", each emphasizing a slightly different aspect of comprehension.

Is it better to say "proper understanding" or "good understanding"?

"Proper understanding" suggests a more complete, accurate, and appropriate comprehension, often implying a need for expertise. "Good understanding" is a more general term for having adequate knowledge. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What does it mean to have "a proper understanding" of something?

To have "a proper understanding" of something means to possess a thorough, accurate, and appropriate comprehension of it. It implies having the necessary knowledge and insight to make informed judgments or decisions.