an extensive grasp of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an extensive grasp of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a deep understanding or comprehensive knowledge of a particular subject or topic. Example: "Her extensive grasp of the subject matter made her the ideal candidate for the teaching position."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Said, an accomplished pianist and, among his other activities, music critic for The Nation, had an insatiable appetite for musical performances and, though he disclaims a musicologist's competence, an extensive and technical grasp of music.

The New Yorker

In order to show grasp-related selectivity of neurons in many component areas of the network it has been necessary to test a wide range of grasps [ 2,7,8].

Current Opinion in Neurobiology

The software appears to have an extensive knowledge of Mills & Boon-style novellas but zero grasp of 1980s feminism and the Greenham Common women's peace camp.

The Guardian

This ambitious book is rooted in extensive archival research and an impressive grasp of the scholarly literature dealing with the Directory and the early years of Napoleon's reign.

Johns Hopkins University

They gave an extensive list of recommendations.

The New York Times

It includes an extensive interview of Samantha Power.

HuffPost

Even if you have an acceptable grasp of the English language, with good grammar and an extensive vocabulary, native English speakers may find you very difficult to understand if you don't work on your pronunciation.

WikiHow

They often have an imperfect grasp of nutritional science.

The Economist

The third requires an intuitive grasp of what debt is.

Forbes

It is an intuitive grasp of the whole.

HuffPost

Two of the four challengers look like better bets: Susan Hoffmann, a former mayor of Rockville with extensive experience in promoting development, and Andrew Platt, an energetic former Capitol Hill staffer who has a good grasp of issues.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context to determine if a synonym like "thorough knowledge" or "comprehensive understanding" might be more appropriate for clarity or impact.

Common error

Avoid using "an extensive grasp of" when a simpler phrase like "good understanding" would suffice. Overusing complex language can make your writing sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an extensive grasp of" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a quality or attribute, specifically indicating a comprehensive understanding or knowledge of something. Ludwig provides examples that support this usage.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an extensive grasp of" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a thorough and comprehensive understanding of a subject. While Ludwig indicates that it is correct, there are currently no exact examples readily available to illustrate its usage. Related phrases such as "a comprehensive understanding of" or "a thorough knowledge of" can be used as alternatives. The phrase is generally suitable for neutral to formal contexts and is useful for highlighting expertise or competence. When writing, avoid overusing it in simple contexts where a simpler phrase would suffice. The phrase is suitable for professional or academic writing but it can appear in news sources and even in scientific contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a comprehensive understanding of

Replaces 'grasp' with 'understanding' and 'extensive' with 'comprehensive', focusing on comprehension rather than command.

a thorough knowledge of

Substitutes 'grasp' with 'knowledge' and 'extensive' with 'thorough', highlighting familiarity and awareness.

a deep understanding of

Emphasizes the depth of understanding, rather than the breadth.

a profound insight into

Highlights insightful understanding, suggesting a more penetrating level of comprehension.

a complete mastery of

Focuses on complete control and expertise, implying a higher level of skill.

a firm command of

Highlights the ability to control and utilize knowledge effectively.

a solid grounding in

Implies a fundamental and well-established knowledge base.

an intimate familiarity with

Stresses a close and personal acquaintance with the subject matter.

a wide-ranging knowledge of

Highlights the breadth of knowledge, suggesting coverage of many aspects.

a nuanced appreciation of

Emphasizes a subtle and detailed understanding, particularly of complex subjects.

FAQs

What does "an extensive grasp of" mean?

It means having a comprehensive and thorough understanding or knowledge of a particular subject or topic.

How can I use "an extensive grasp of" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe someone's deep understanding of a subject, for example: "Her an extensive grasp of the subject matter made her the ideal candidate for the teaching position."

What are some alternatives to "an extensive grasp of"?

You can use alternatives like "a comprehensive understanding of", "a thorough knowledge of", or "a deep understanding of" depending on the context.

Is "an extensive grasp on" grammatically correct?

While not as common, "an extensive grasp on" can be used to describe control or influence, but "an extensive grasp of" is typically preferred when referring to understanding or knowledge.