are to understand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are to understand" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is expected or required to comprehend something. Example: "In this training session, participants are to understand the key principles of effective communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Consequently, understanding chromatin structure is essential if we are to understand how the cell accesses the information stored in the genome.

Bioinformatics

Understanding this evolutionary choice is essential if we are to understand the outcomes and predictability of adaptation on rugged landscapes.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Balanchine, we are to understand, was a tortured artist.

The New Yorker

It is very sure how you are to understand the artist.

The Guardian - Arts

Of course, we are to understand, Wordsworth himself has only a minor talent.

The Guardian - Film

All these well-learned lessons need to be unlearned if we are to understand the constitution.

The New Yorker

We need to properly explore Earth's biodiversity if we are to understand, preserve and manage it.

The New York Times

That needs to change if sex traders are to understand that their free ride in our backyard is over.

The New York Times

"It is important," I say, "to know a film-maker's background if we are to understand him properly.

The Guardian - Film

The trouble, we are to understand, is it isn't all that easy to be young and pretty at the bar.

The New Yorker

We are to understand that there are close connections between violence in the past and in the present.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are to understand" when you want to express an expectation or a requirement for comprehension, often in formal or instructional contexts. For instance, use it to clarify the aims of a lesson or a study.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "are to understand" can sound overly formal or stiff in casual conversation. Opt for more natural alternatives like "should understand" or "need to know" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are to understand" functions as a marker of expectation or obligation, indicating that comprehension is required. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use. The examples from Ludwig showcase its use in various contexts, often with a focus on necessary comprehension for achieving a specific outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are to understand" serves to communicate a requirement or expectation for comprehension. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in formal and scientific contexts. While predominantly found in Science and News & Media, it's crucial to consider the setting. While Ludwig AI states that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use, one should prefer alternatives in informal conversations like "should understand" or "need to know" because this phrase tends to be more directive. It’s a valuable tool for setting clear expectations, but its formality warrants mindful application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are expected to understand

Directly states the expectation of comprehension, adding emphasis to the anticipated understanding.

need to comprehend

Emphasizes the necessity of comprehension, similar to the original phrase, but using different vocabulary.

should grasp

Indicates a recommendation or expectation of understanding, focusing on the act of seizing knowledge.

must realize

Highlights the importance of achieving awareness or understanding, implying a critical need.

ought to comprehend

Suggests a moral or logical obligation to understand, carrying a sense of duty.

have to appreciate

Focuses on recognizing the value or significance of something, a specific form of understanding.

required to assimilate

Highlights the necessity of integrating knowledge, suggesting a more active process of understanding.

need to internalize

Implies a deeper level of understanding that involves incorporating the knowledge into one's beliefs.

should be aware of

Focuses on being informed about something, emphasizing the state of knowledge rather than the act of understanding.

must take into account

Highlights the need to consider something, implying that understanding is crucial for informed decision-making.

FAQs

How can I use "are to understand" in a sentence?

The phrase "are to understand" indicates an expectation or requirement for comprehension. For example, "Students "are to understand" the material before the test" implies that students are expected to comprehend the subject matter.

What are some alternatives to "are to understand"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "should understand", "need to comprehend", or "are expected to understand". Consider using "need to comprehend" when emphasizing necessity.

Is "are to understand" formal or informal?

"Are to understand" tends to be more formal. In informal contexts, simpler phrases like "should know" or "need to understand" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "are to understand" and "should understand"?

"Are to understand" implies a rule or expectation, whereas "should understand" suggests a recommendation or logical conclusion. The former is more directive.