begin to comprehend

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "begin to comprehend" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of starting to understand something, often in a gradual manner. Example: "After several hours of study, I began to comprehend the complex theories presented in the textbook."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Now, they can begin to comprehend it.

The New York Times - Tech

It's bigger than I think we even begin to comprehend".

The New Yorker

Children begin to comprehend words some months before they themselves actually speak.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We cannot begin to comprehend the depth of your sadness and grief.

The New York Times

"Such delusion, such evil, is impossible for us to begin to comprehend".

The Guardian

They say those who haven't parented can't even begin to comprehend its radiant satisfactions.

The Guardian

"I cannot begin to comprehend the loss of a talented, ebullient and lovely lad.

The Guardian - Sport

We cannot begin to comprehend what is expected of our soldiers.

The New York Times - Magazine

"When you begin to comprehend what Carlin was doing, you've arrived in an extraordinary place.

The New York Times - Magazine

At some point, I did begin to comprehend what I'd been through and how it had affected me.

The Guardian

Virtually all children begin to comprehend some words several months before they speak their own first meaningful words.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "begin to comprehend" when describing a gradual process of understanding, especially when the subject matter is complex or requires deeper thought. For example, "After weeks of research, I began to comprehend the intricacies of quantum physics."

Common error

Avoid using "begin to comprehend" in situations where simpler phrases like "start to understand" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "begin to comprehend" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the commencement of understanding something. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct and widely used. It describes the initial phase of grasping a concept or idea.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Science

11%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "begin to comprehend" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression denoting the start of understanding something, often complex. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and versatility. While generally neutral in tone, its formality can shift depending on the context, appearing frequently in news media and formal writing. Alternatives such as "start to understand" offer simpler options, and being mindful of context is key to effective usage. The examples showcase its wide applicability, from personal reflections to societal observations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

start to understand

This alternative emphasizes the initiation of the understanding process. It is a more direct and simpler way to express the same idea.

begin to grasp

This phrase replaces "comprehend" with "grasp", suggesting a more active and forceful attempt to understand something.

come to understand

This suggests a gradual process of developing understanding over time, rather than an immediate start.

start to perceive

This alternative focuses on the initial recognition and awareness of something, rather than a full understanding.

begin to realize

This alternative is more about becoming aware of something, often after a period of unawareness or misunderstanding.

begin to apprehend

Using "apprehend" adds a layer of formality and implies a more intellectual grasp of something abstract or complex.

start to fathom

Replacing "comprehend" with "fathom" suggests attempting to understand something deep or mysterious.

begin to discern

This option implies distinguishing or recognizing something that is not immediately obvious.

start to appreciate

Using "appreciate" means to begin to understand the value or significance of something.

begin to decode

This phrase suggests starting to unravel or interpret something complex or hidden.

FAQs

How can I use "begin to comprehend" in a sentence?

You can use "begin to comprehend" to describe the initial stage of understanding something complex, like: "Only after years of study did I "begin to comprehend" the full scope of the project."

What's a less formal way to say "begin to comprehend"?

If you're aiming for a more casual tone, try using phrases like "start to understand" or "begin to grasp". These alternatives convey a similar meaning without sounding overly formal.

Which is correct, "begin to comprehend" or "began to comprehend"?

Both "begin to comprehend" and "began to comprehend" are grammatically correct. "Begin to comprehend" is present tense, used for ongoing or habitual actions. "Began to comprehend" is past tense, used for actions that started in the past.

What's the difference between "begin to comprehend" and "fully comprehend"?

"Begin to comprehend" indicates the initial stage of understanding, while "fully comprehend" suggests a complete and thorough understanding. The first implies a process, whereas the second implies completion.