a sensible understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sensible understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a logical or reasonable comprehension of a subject or situation. Example: "After discussing the issue thoroughly, we reached a sensible understanding of the challenges we face."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

If all respect entailed was a due regard for the achievements of the past or a sensible understanding that the Church of England does more good than harm, I would not argue with him.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Since 1991, the United States has granted duty-free access to many Andean exports on the sensible understanding that it is better for Ecuadoreans, say, to plant flowers rather than coca for export to the United States.

The New York Times

In conclusion, while Richter & Ellenberg have a sensible proposal, we need a better understanding of whether it works in practice, and what impact it has on clinician patient relationships, before we can agree that an opt-out for the offer of treatment is mandatory best practice.

Addiction

Understanding how to build on what is working is a sensible next step.

Huffington Post

Continued careful measurement of these trajectories, combined with a sensible interpretation of their meaning, has the potential to greatly improve our understanding of the dynamics of adaptation over short timescales.

Genetics

That basic understanding will also enable us to manipulate those organisms in a sensible fashion.

Biochemical Society Transactions

Thereby, aside from providing a broad, full understanding of years lived with quality of life, HLE based on self-rated health is a sensible and irreplaceable indicator because it represents the view of global health status.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

A sensible….

The New Yorker

What a sensible idea!

The New York Times

"In a sensible way".

The Guardian - Music

A sensible coat.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity and practicality in your writing, "a sensible understanding" can effectively convey that a concept is not only understood but also makes logical sense in its application.

Common error

While many synonyms exist for "understanding", avoid replacing "a sensible understanding" with overly complex or jargon-heavy alternatives that may obscure the intended meaning. The phrase's strength lies in its straightforward clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sensible understanding" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "sensible" modifies the noun "understanding". It signifies a comprehension that is not only present but also logical and practical. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sensible understanding" is a grammatically correct phrase that signifies a logical and practical comprehension of a subject. While Ludwig identifies its use as relatively rare, the phrase appears in reputable sources like The Guardian and The New York Times, primarily within news and science contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects an understanding that is not only present but also demonstrates sound judgment. If aiming for alternative expressions, consider options such as "a rational comprehension" or "a reasonable grasp". Overall, Ludwig confirms that "a sensible understanding" is a usable and effective phrase for conveying clear and logical comprehension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a rational comprehension

Replaces "sensible" with "rational" to emphasize logical thinking.

a reasonable grasp

Uses "reasonable" and "grasp" to convey understanding as a form of mental hold.

a practical appreciation

Substitutes "understanding" with "appreciation" to highlight practical value.

a sound interpretation

Replaces "understanding" with "interpretation" emphasizing the process of explaining meaning.

an informed perspective

Shifts the focus to having a well-informed point of view.

a logical conclusion

Emphasizes the result of understanding as a reasoned deduction.

a realistic assessment

Highlights evaluating a situation with practicality.

a clear perception

Focuses on the clarity and distinctness of the understanding.

an astute awareness

Highlights a sharp and perceptive recognition.

a judicious insight

Emphasizes wisdom and good judgment in understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sensible understanding" to describe a comprehension that is both logical and practical. For example: "The policy change reflects "a sensible understanding" of the current economic climate."

What are some alternatives to "a sensible understanding"?

Alternatives include "a rational comprehension", "a reasonable grasp", or "a practical appreciation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a sensible understanding" formal or informal?

"A sensible understanding" is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, making it versatile for various writing styles. Its level of formality depends on the surrounding vocabulary and sentence structure.

What's the difference between "a sensible understanding" and "a basic understanding"?

"A basic understanding" implies a rudimentary grasp of a topic, while "a sensible understanding" suggests a more nuanced comprehension that incorporates logic and practicality. "Sensible" adds the element of sound judgment to the understanding.