be essential to understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be essential to understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when emphasizing the importance of a particular element or concept in grasping a broader idea or topic. Example: "The historical context of the event is essential to understanding its significance in modern society."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

In addition to modeling protein folding, thought to be essential to understanding how to treat many diseases, the software written for the supercomputer will seep down into future generations of slower computers, benefiting a wider range of life-science projects.

The New York Times

"As often as not, I receive information that may not be directly pertinent to the computation of the claim, but is considered by the family member to be essential to understanding the person," he said.

The New York Times

Therefore, a hierarchical perspective can be essential to understanding complex ecological systems.

Ecological Modelling

Nonetheless, he takes value incommensurability to be essential to understanding the tragedy of the dilemma that Sophie encounters.

SEP

The parameters derived during experimental ligament loading are considered to be essential to understanding ligament function and evaluating the appropriateness of different graft materials and fixation techniques commonly used in ACL reconstruction [26, 27, 28].

Strategies in Trauma and Limb Reconstruction

After discussing the video, students progress to an exploratory and interactive web site that introduces additional concepts and vocabulary that will be essential to understanding the products of their analyses (http://www.nescent.org/media/NABT/mega_workshop.php).org/media/NABT/mega_workshop.php

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Long data records are essential to understanding complex natural systems.

The New York Times

I think it's essential to understanding what happened.

The New York Times

Their views are essential to understanding what is going on in Egypt.

The Guardian - Opinion

Research like this is essential to understanding why that is, and how to change it.

The Guardian - Opinion

The "book" isn't dead: how traditional print is essential to understanding WikiLeaks and Julian Assange.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To strengthen your argument, follow the phrase with concrete examples or evidence illustrating why that element is crucial for comprehension.

Common error

Avoid using "be essential to understanding" for minor or trivial details. Reserve it for elements that are truly critical for grasping the main concept; overusing it dilutes its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be essential to understanding" functions as a connector, linking a specific element or piece of information to the overall comprehension of a topic. It highlights the indispensable nature of that element for achieving a complete grasp of the subject matter. Ludwig provides several examples of its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be essential to understanding" is a phrase used to underscore the critical importance of a specific element for comprehensive comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It is most frequently found in scientific and news media sources, maintaining a formal to neutral register. When using the phrase, it’s crucial to provide context and avoid overuse to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "be crucial to understanding" or "be key to understanding" can add variety while preserving the core meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be crucial to understanding

Replaces "essential" with "crucial", emphasizing the critical nature of understanding.

be key to understanding

Substitutes "essential" with "key", highlighting that it is a fundamental element for comprehension.

be vital to understanding

Replaces "essential" with "vital", stressing its importance for grasping the core idea.

be imperative to understanding

Substitutes "essential" with "imperative", indicating an unavoidable necessity for understanding.

be fundamental to understanding

Replaces "essential" with "fundamental", emphasizing the foundational role in comprehension.

be important for understanding

Uses "important" instead of "essential", a slightly less forceful synonym, but conveys a similar meaning.

be integral to understanding

Emphasizes the completeness of understanding when this component is present.

be indispensable to understanding

Stresses that understanding is not possible without this aspect.

be paramount to understanding

Indicates that this element is of utmost importance for achieving comprehension.

be requisite for understanding

Highlights that this is a requirement or condition that must be met for understanding to occur.

FAQs

How can I use "be essential to understanding" in a sentence?

Use "be essential to understanding" to highlight a component that is critical for grasping a broader concept. For example, "A strong vocabulary is essential to understanding complex texts."

What are some alternatives to "be essential to understanding"?

You can use alternatives such as "be crucial to understanding", "be key to understanding", or "be vital to understanding" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "be essential to understanding" and "be helpful to understanding"?

"Be essential to understanding" indicates that something is absolutely necessary for comprehension, while "be helpful to understanding" suggests it aids comprehension but isn't strictly required. The former implies a higher degree of importance.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state what "be essential to understanding" refers to?

Yes, clarity is key. Always ensure the context makes it clear what element "be essential to understanding". Ambiguity can confuse the reader.