build mutual understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "build mutual understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in contexts where you want to emphasize the importance of fostering comprehension and empathy between individuals or groups. Example: "In order to resolve the conflict, we need to build mutual understanding between both parties involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

But he envisions the scholarship as a chance to build mutual understanding.

The New York Times

It is important to build mutual understanding and respect for public sector colleagues as early as possible.

The Guardian

It's time we learned to speak up and address these interruptions and safely build mutual understanding of their appropriate use in our life.

Harvard Business Review

But organizations like the Muslim American Society, a Washington-based nonprofit group that helps plant new mosques in communities throughout the country, have adopted a strategy of engagement that they say they hope will eventually build mutual understanding.

The New York Times

With that inspiration, we strive to remove barriers to talent wherever we find them, to build mutual understanding across our campus, to celebrate our our wonderful range of cultures and backgrounds — and to help everyone in our community feel at home at MIT.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This day is meant to recognize the achievements of people with disabilities (PWDs), promote a positive image of PWDs in order to break the stigma and marginalization they face, and bring local communities together in activities that build mutual understanding and awareness for disability inclusion.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Even when two worlds are far apart, it seems that innate curiosity always drives inquiries into foreign people and objects but it is never easy to build mutual, in-depth understanding of each other.

Harvard University

In 2011, over 350,000 individuals participated in YWCA racial justice programs to increase awareness, build trust, break down stereotypes and communication barriers and build mutual respect and understanding of racial differences.

Forbes

These initiatives can help build mutual respect and understanding, while providing benefits to all the parties involved.

Conflict and Health

"And that helps build mutual respect".

Huffington Post

If we can build some mutual understanding of how each sector works and what they are trying to achieve I think a lot of progress could be made.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advocating for a cause, use "build mutual understanding" to highlight the importance of empathy and knowledge, not just agreement. This suggests a deeper, more sustainable connection.

Common error

Avoid using "build mutual understanding" as a blanket solution. Always consider if more specific actions, such as "facilitate dialogue" or "promote empathy and rapport", are more appropriate to the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build mutual understanding" functions primarily as a call to action, urging efforts to establish comprehension and empathy between parties. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is considered usable and correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

29%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "build mutual understanding" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that encourages the fostering of comprehension and empathy. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It appears frequently in contexts related to news and media, academia, and science. While highly valuable, it's essential to avoid overuse and consider more specific actions when appropriate. Alternatives such as "foster shared understanding" or "develop common ground" may sometimes be more fitting depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foster shared understanding

Replaces "build" with "foster", emphasizing the nurturing of understanding.

cultivate mutual comprehension

Uses "cultivate" and "comprehension" to highlight careful development and thorough understanding.

develop common ground

Focuses on finding shared interests or beliefs to create a foundation for understanding.

promote empathy and rapport

Emphasizes emotional connection and understanding between individuals.

establish a consensus

Highlights the achievement of agreement or shared opinion after discussion.

encourage open communication

Focuses on creating an environment where understanding can naturally arise.

facilitate dialogue

Highlights the process of structured conversation for reaching understanding.

bridge the gap

Implies overcoming a difference or separation to reach understanding.

increase cross-cultural awareness

Focuses on broadening understanding between different cultures.

strengthen interpersonal relations

Emphasizes improving the quality of relationships through enhanced understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "build mutual understanding" to emphasize the importance of creating comprehension and empathy between individuals or groups. For example: "The program aims to build mutual understanding between students from different cultural backgrounds."

What are some alternatives to "build mutual understanding"?

You can use alternatives like "foster shared understanding", "cultivate mutual comprehension", or "develop common ground" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "build mutual understanding" and "build mutual respect"?

"Build mutual understanding" focuses on creating comprehension and empathy, while "build mutual respect" centers on fostering admiration and appreciation for others. While related, understanding doesn't guarantee respect, and vice versa.

Is it always necessary to "build mutual understanding"?

While understanding is generally beneficial, it may not always be necessary or achievable. In certain adversarial situations, focusing on clear communication and setting boundaries may be more productive than attempting to build mutual understanding.