authentic understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

"authentic understanding" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a deep or true understanding of a subject. For example, "It was only through authentic understanding of the culture that their customs could be properly appreciated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Many said she couldn't adequately perform her duties because she lacked an authentic understanding of the black female experience.

The New York Times

But the dialogue is surprisingly entertaining and infused with what seems an authentic understanding of how it feels to be passionate about maths.

Independent

If the sonic connections to the great clown are blurry, Douglas's affinity for hip-hop aesthetics are clear as day, and the rhythmic strategies and production reveal an authentic understanding of the genre.

The New Yorker

A series of theological controversies over the authentic understanding of Luther's thought some had already erupted during Luther's own lifetime began to divide Lutheran theologians and churches with increasing intensity.

Britannica

"Our trip gave us areas to focus on around adapting Asian dishes for the English market so it will appeal to our foreign students, and make them feel that their needs are being met by demonstrating a stronger, more authentic understanding of their culture," commented Ms Barker.

Independent

Leading from the front is about more than surface familiarity with your team's responsibilities — it's about an authentic understanding of the role that you're asking them to perform.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

There is nothing untoward about the idea that qualified journalists of diverse races, ages, genders and backgrounds are able to broaden and deepen perspectives and present different and more authentic understandings of their realities.

The Guardian - Opinion

In order for society at large to seriously embrace prison reform there is a clear need for more cabinet ministers, lords and MPs to be sent to prison – especially MPs – as without authentic political understanding of prison issues to drive political will, engineering real change in our prisons I fear is always going to be an uphill struggle.

The Guardian

But for Sartre, authentic historical understanding demanded a much more personal and committed narrative, a kind of interpretive diary of moral choices and risks compelled by critical necessity and an exacting reality.

University of Chicago

In this paper, we detail the design of these two systems, referred to as MILA and MeTA respectively, and the way in which they help students obtain a more authentic and advanced understanding of complex systems.

Procedia Computer Science

Still, we sought to incorporate Avida-ED in our large-enrollment introductory biology course, based on its potential for supporting learning about evolution, complex systems thinking, authentic inquiry, and understanding of the nature of science.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "authentic understanding" when you want to emphasize that the understanding is not superficial or merely intellectual, but deeply ingrained and genuine. It conveys a sense of true comprehension that goes beyond surface-level knowledge.

Common error

Avoid using "authentic understanding" when you mean a basic or introductory level of knowledge. The phrase implies a depth of comprehension, so ensure that the context reflects a genuinely profound grasp of the subject matter. Otherwise, stick to terms like "basic knowledge" or "familiarity".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "authentic understanding" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "authentic" modifies the noun "understanding". It serves to emphasize the genuineness and depth of the comprehension being described, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "authentic understanding" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes a deep and genuine comprehension. According to Ludwig, it's most commonly found in news, scientific and academic contexts and is suitable for formal and neutral registers. When using this phrase, ensure that the context reflects a thorough grasp of the subject matter, going beyond mere superficial knowledge. Alternatives include "genuine comprehension" and "real understanding". The phrase effectively communicates a nuanced and well-informed perspective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genuine comprehension

Replaces "authentic" with "genuine", emphasizing the sincerity and truthfulness of the comprehension.

real understanding

Substitutes "authentic" with "real", highlighting the tangible and concrete nature of the understanding.

true grasp

Replaces "authentic understanding" with a more concise expression, focusing on the act of firmly seizing or comprehending.

profound insight

Shifts the focus from understanding to the depth and perceptiveness of the insight gained.

deep appreciation

Changes the context to emphasize a thorough and heartfelt valuing or recognition.

thorough knowledge

Focuses on the completeness and comprehensiveness of the knowledge acquired.

complete awareness

Emphasizes a full and comprehensive consciousness or perception.

informed perspective

Highlights a viewpoint that is based on a solid foundation of knowledge and understanding.

substantive insight

Replaces "authentic understanding" with an option that emphasizes a great importance, or validity.

valid interpretation

Refers to an understanding that has been checked or proven to be correct.

FAQs

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

You can use "authentic understanding" to describe a deep and genuine comprehension of a subject. For example, "It was only through an authentic understanding of the local culture that they could effectively implement their program."

What are some alternatives to "authentic understanding"?

Alternatives to "authentic understanding" include "genuine comprehension", "real understanding", or "profound insight", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "authentic understanding" the same as "basic knowledge"?

No, "authentic understanding" implies a deep and thorough comprehension, while "basic knowledge" refers to a foundational or introductory level of understanding. They are not interchangeable.

When is it appropriate to use "authentic understanding" in writing?

Use "authentic understanding" when you want to emphasize that someone has a deep, genuine, and thorough comprehension of a topic, not just a superficial awareness. It's suitable when describing a nuanced and well-informed perspective.