a proper understanding of

USAGE SUMMARY

"a proper understanding of" is an acceptable phrase in written English.
You can use it to emphasize that you have a thorough understanding of a certain topic or concept. Example sentence: My background in engineering and experience in programming have given me a proper understanding of the principles of cyber security.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

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

The key to a proper understanding of the Augustan Age and its poets lies, indeed, in a proper understanding of the turmoil that had preceded the Augustan peace.

Britannica

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

The Guardian - Opinion

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

The Guardian

A crucial first step is gaining a proper understanding of the city's balance sheet.

The Guardian

3M says those who causally link PFAS and cancer lack a proper understanding of the science.

The Guardian

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

The Guardian - Opinion

Nothing has done more to obscure a proper understanding of Russia's place in European culture between 1812 and 1917.

The Guardian - Books

These properties are critical to a proper understanding of their behaviour and durability.

Engineering Structures

A proper understanding of a user story also requires an understanding of its dependencies.

Information and Software Technology

So, a proper understanding of the flow-obstacle-interaction is required to construct adequate defense structures.

Engineering Geology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a proper understanding of", ensure that the context clearly indicates what needs to be understood. For instance, specify "a proper understanding of the economic implications" rather than just "a proper understanding."

Common error

Avoid using "a proper understanding of" when referring to something you are still learning or exploring. It suggests a level of comprehension that may not yet exist. Instead, opt for phrases like "developing an understanding of" or "exploring the concept of."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a proper understanding of" functions as a noun phrase that serves as the subject or object of a sentence, indicating the necessity or importance of having a complete and accurate comprehension of a particular subject or concept. This is supported by Ludwig, which affirms its acceptability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a proper understanding of" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that highlights the importance of having a thorough and accurate comprehension of a particular subject. According to Ludwig, the phrase is acceptable in written English and appears most often in scientific and news-related contexts. When using this phrase, make sure to specify the subject that requires understanding, and avoid overstating your level of comprehension. Alternatives like "a thorough grasp of" or "a comprehensive knowledge of" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thorough grasp of

Focuses on having a firm and complete understanding.

a comprehensive knowledge of

Emphasizes the breadth and depth of the knowledge.

an accurate appreciation of

Highlights the correctness and value of the understanding.

a sound appreciation of

Highlights the reasonableness and sturdiness of the understanding.

a deep insight into

Implies a profound and penetrating understanding.

a clear perception of

Focuses on the clarity and accuracy of the mental image.

a full awareness of

Highlights the state of being completely informed.

a solid command of

Suggests expertise and control over the subject matter.

a working knowledge of

Refers to a practical and functional understanding.

an intimate familiarity with

Implies a close and personal understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "a proper understanding of" to emphasize a thorough grasp of a subject. For example, "A successful project requires a proper understanding of the client's needs."

What are some alternatives to saying "a proper understanding of"?

You can use alternatives like "a thorough grasp of", "a comprehensive knowledge of", or "a clear perception of" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a proper understanding of" or "an understanding of"?

"A proper understanding of" emphasizes the depth and accuracy of the understanding, while "an understanding of" is more general. Use "a proper understanding of" when you want to stress that the understanding is thorough and correct.

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

To have "a proper understanding of" something means you possess a comprehensive, accurate, and functional knowledge of it, enabling you to apply it effectively and make informed decisions.