build a shared understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "build a shared understanding" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when you are trying to establish a common viewpoint on a particular subject. For example: "Let's work together to build a shared understanding of our project timeline so that everyone is on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Then, the organizers would consolidate stories, relate them, and build a shared understanding of common problems.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

If contracts were awarded with a requirement for "open book accounting" then we could build a shared understanding of what it really costs to deliver the right assistance.

The Guardian - Opinion

You are communicating about the institution and trying to help build a shared understanding of the institution's direction.

Forbes

The facilitators intentionally did not take time to build a shared understanding of the vision in order to allow ideas to surface that would illuminate faculty's interpretation of the vision and identify their perceived barriers and drivers.

International Journal of STEM Education

The EBSA description process is a good example of how to bring the international community together to build a shared understanding of which ocean areas are particularly valuable to biodiversity.

Duke University

In Metropolitan Paris, interventions could focus on building local collaborations among enterprises, growth companies, and startups, as well as increasing the relationship capital among angels and financial organizations to build a shared understanding of perceived social rewards for taking innovation risks.

Triple Helix

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

This step creates a path forward, out of the conflict zone, and builds a shared understanding of the issue.

Harvard Business Review

Then, after your team has built a shared understanding of the challenge, you can figure out exactly where to turn your attention.

Harvard Business Review

The sequencing of three studios builds a shared understanding of urban theories and terms, design tools, and research methods essential to urban design thought and practice.

Columbia University

Respect for other institutions is meaningful only if it can be built on a shared understanding of these values and on a mutual commitment to protect them.

Harvard University

If this vision builds on a shared understanding of the issues at stake and includes credible climate policies that spur sustainable development, it can protect economic competitiveness and put the province on track to contributing to Canada's emissions targets.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "build a shared understanding" in collaborative settings, actively encourage open communication and diverse perspectives to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive viewpoint.

Common error

Avoid using "build a shared understanding" when it's clear that all parties already possess a common understanding of the matter. Instead, focus on action or progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build a shared understanding" functions as a verb phrase that describes the action of creating a common base of knowledge or perspective among individuals or groups. Ludwig examples show its use across various domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "build a shared understanding" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression signifying the process of establishing a common base of knowledge or perspective, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is versatile across various registers and aims to foster collaboration and mitigate conflicts. To ensure clarity and avoid redundancy, it's crucial to assess whether a shared understanding already exists before using the phrase, and consider context-appropriate alternatives such as "foster a common understanding", if needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Foster a common understanding

Replaces "build" with "foster", emphasizing nurturing rather than constructing.

Develop a mutual understanding

Substitutes "shared" with "mutual", highlighting reciprocity in understanding.

Establish a joint understanding

Uses "establish" instead of "build", suggesting a more formal creation of understanding.

Create a collective understanding

Replaces "shared" with "collective", stressing the group aspect of the understanding.

Cultivate a unified perspective

Shifts from "understanding" to "perspective", focusing on viewpoints.

Forge a consensus of understanding

Employs "forge" to suggest a more deliberate and effortful process.

Promote a common interpretation

Focuses on the interpretation of information rather than general understanding.

Encourage mutual comprehension

Replaces "understanding" with "comprehension", focusing on grasping the meaning.

Facilitate shared knowledge

Shifts the focus from understanding to the sharing of knowledge.

Construct a framework of agreement

Emphasizes building a structure for future agreements.

FAQs

How can I use "build a shared understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "build a shared understanding" to describe the process of creating a common perspective or agreement, as in "The team worked together to build a shared understanding of the project goals."

What are some alternatives to "build a shared understanding"?

Alternatives include "foster a common understanding", "develop a mutual understanding", or "establish a joint understanding".

Is it always necessary to "build a shared understanding" before acting?

While it's beneficial, it's not always necessary. In situations requiring immediate action, focus on clear communication and established protocols. However, for long-term collaboration, "build a shared understanding" is crucial.

What is the difference between "build a shared understanding" and "reach an agreement"?

"Build a shared understanding" focuses on developing a common perspective, while "reach an agreement" focuses on making a decision. You might "build a shared understanding" to facilitate "reach an agreement", but they are distinct processes.