as we understood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as we understood" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to indicate that the speaker's knowledge or understanding of something may not be completely accurate or may have changed. Example: As we understood, the concert was supposed to start at 8 PM, but it was actually delayed until 9 PM.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

But this was beside the point, as we understood.

The New Yorker

If we discover that our identity as we understood it had been a myth?

The Guardian

(As we understood this, PM thought it was a picture of Oliver LaFarge).

The New Yorker

"The yuppies as we understood them disappeared after the '87 stock market crash.

The New York Times

"We had a very good sense throughout the crisis that ING was on solid footing, as we understood it.

The New York Times - Sports

Mark and I wanted to present the story as we understood it, based on the extraordinary research that Mark did".

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Elections aren't democracy, as we understand it.

The Washington Post

This is nothing like warfare as we understand it.

The Guardian

Without water, life as we understand it would be impossible.

The Guardian

Human rights as we understand them now were not observed.

The Guardian

The facts as we understand them today are these.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "as we understood" with a specific timeframe to clarify when your understanding was accurate. For example, "As we understood it at the time...". This provides important context and avoids potential misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid using "as we understood" when you possess definitive knowledge or evidence. Using it in such contexts can undermine the credibility of your statement. Instead, reserve it for situations where there's a degree of uncertainty or interpretation involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as we understood" functions as a qualifier, modifying a statement to indicate that the information presented is based on a particular understanding, which may be incomplete or subject to change. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and useful in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as we understood" is a grammatically sound phrase that serves to qualify statements by acknowledging the possibility of incomplete or evolving understanding. It is frequently used in news and media, as well as in scientific contexts, and carries a neutral to professional tone. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples of its application. The related phrases offer alternatives depending on the nuance you want to convey. Use this phrase when you want to be transparent about the basis of your statement and acknowledge the potential for alternative interpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as we interpreted it

Focuses on the act of interpretation rather than general understanding.

from our perspective

Highlights a specific viewpoint or angle on the matter.

to our knowledge

Emphasizes the limits of one's awareness or information.

according to our perception

Stresses the subjective nature of understanding.

based on our information

Indicates that the understanding is derived from specific data.

in our estimation

Highlights a judgment or assessment based on understanding.

as we gathered

Emphasizes the process of collecting information that led to the understanding.

the way we saw it

Uses a more visual metaphor to describe understanding.

in our view

Highlights that this is an opinion.

given our understanding

Focuses on how present understanding is an assumption.

FAQs

How can I use "as we understood" in a sentence?

Use "as we understood" to preface a statement that reflects a particular interpretation or knowledge at a specific time. For example, "As we understood, the project deadline was extended."

What's the difference between "as we understood" and "as we understand"?

"As we understood" refers to a past understanding, while "as we understand" reflects a current understanding. Choose the tense that accurately reflects the timeline of your knowledge.

What can I say instead of "as we understood"?

You can use alternatives like "to our knowledge", "from our perspective", or "as we interpreted it depending on the nuance you want to convey".

Is it always necessary to use "as we understood" when presenting an interpretation?

No, it's not always necessary. Use "as we understood" when you want to acknowledge that your understanding may be incomplete, evolving, or potentially different from others' perspectives. If your knowledge is definitive, it may not be necessary.