are understanding of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are understanding of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that someone has a comprehension or awareness of a particular situation or concept. Example: "The teachers are understanding of the challenges their students face during exams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

In negotiations, they are understanding of quirks.

The Economist

They are understanding of his four marriages.

The New York Times - Sports

Svoboda's leaders admire proto-Nazis such as Ernst Jünger, and are "understanding" of Goebbels.

The Guardian

Although theatres are understanding of these working methods, producers tend to be nervous of promoting a show with no name.

The Guardian

"They are in a really difficult position but they are understanding of the framework in which we have to operate," he said.

The Guardian

"I have informed the Australian team captain and relevant authorities, who are understanding of my position and I wish the Australian Olympic team the very best of luck in Rio".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

I'm understanding of the need for corporate sponsorship.

The Guardian - Arts

"I think he was understanding of his misactions".

The New York Times - Sports

He was understanding of her past, she said.

The New York Times

A He was understanding of what I needed to do.

The New York Times

She was tolerant of other people, and was understanding of her family.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are understanding of", ensure the object of the preposition is clearly defined. Vague references can lead to ambiguity. For example, instead of "They are understanding of the situation", specify "They are understanding of the challenges the company faces."

Common error

Avoid using "are understanding for" or "are understanding with" instead of "are understanding of". The correct preposition is "of" to indicate comprehension or empathy toward something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are understanding of" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a subject's state of comprehension, awareness, or empathy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable phrase. The examples show it typically precedes a noun phrase indicating what is being understood.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

21%

Science

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are understanding of" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey comprehension and empathy. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to describe a subject's state of understanding, often implying tolerance or acceptance. While alternatives like ""are aware of"" or ""are sympathetic to"" may fit in certain contexts, "are understanding of" offers a specific nuance of empathetic comprehension. While seen in diverse sources like The Guardian, The New York Times, and even WikiHow, it's crucial to use the correct preposition ("of") and clearly define the object being understood to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are aware of

Focuses on knowledge or consciousness of something rather than empathy or tolerance.

are cognizant of

Implies a formal or official acknowledgment or understanding.

are conscious of

Highlights an awareness or realization of something.

are sympathetic to

Highlights empathy and compassion towards someone or something.

are mindful of

Suggests a deliberate attention and consideration.

comprehend

A more concise verb expressing understanding.

are responsive to

Implies a willingness to react positively or supportively.

appreciate

Suggests a valuing or recognition of the significance of something.

are perceptive of

Emphasizes keen observation and insight.

are insightful about

Emphasizes a deep and accurate understanding of a situation.

FAQs

What does "are understanding of" mean?

The phrase "are understanding of" means that someone has comprehension, awareness, or empathy towards a particular situation, person, or concept. It suggests a level of acceptance or tolerance.

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

You can use "are understanding of" to describe someone's attitude or perspective. For example: "The teachers "are understanding of" the challenges their students face during exams."

What can I say instead of "are understanding of"?

You can use alternatives like "are aware of", "are sympathetic to", or "are mindful of" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "are understanding of" or "understand"?

Both "are understanding of" and "understand" can be correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Understand" is a more direct statement of comprehension. "Are understanding of" often implies empathy or tolerance in addition to comprehension.