can be properly understood as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be properly understood as" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to clarify or explain the meaning of a concept or term in a precise manner. Example: "The term 'sustainability' can be properly understood as the ability to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Thus in particular the integral of the delta function against a continuous function can be properly understood as a Stieltjes integral: :\int_{-\infty}^\infty f(x)\delta\{dx\} = \int_{-\infty}^\infty f(x) \, dH x).

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

But the fervor with which he is now rejected can be properly understood only in relation to his original appeal — as a measure of disillusionment.

The New Yorker

It is well established that the behaviour of the strata in BG panels can be properly understood by measuring the various diagnostic parameters such as the stress on pillars, bed separation and convergence in galleries and load on the supports.

International Journal of Geo-Engineering

These are early days for such evolutionary developmental genomics, with much work to be done to understand not just the development of the notochord in one or two model chordates, but across the chordates as a whole, so that the evolutionary dynamics can be properly understood.

BMC Biology

Historical allusions such as bin Laden's, which may seem abstruse to many Americans, are common among Muslims, and can be properly understood only within the context of Middle Eastern perceptions of identity and against the background of Middle Eastern history.

The New Yorker

Such a data rate was pitifully inadequate; in space, complex phenomena must often be photographed many hundreds of times before they can be properly understood.

The New Yorker

Now, in its proper context, verse 9 5 can be properly understood.

Huffington Post

Being a particular case of condensed matter physics, it is very unlikely that the physics of life can be properly understood without quantum theory.

Biology Direct

But I would not go so far as to say that all "why" questions can only be properly understood as "how" ones.

The Guardian

Human performance within these complex work systems can only be properly understood as human interactions within the broader context of work.

Ergonomics

Such grants can, in fact, be properly understood as Executive Branch earmarks.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing this phrase, follow it with a clear and concise explanation to avoid ambiguity. Support your interpretation with evidence or examples whenever possible.

Common error

Avoid using "can be properly understood as" to state the obvious or well-known facts. This phrase is best suited for nuanced interpretations, not for restating common knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be properly understood as" functions as a linking expression to introduce an interpretation or a specific perspective. It signals that what follows is not just any understanding, but the correct or most accurate understanding, often requiring additional context or analysis. Ludwig shows examples where this phrase clarifies complex concepts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can be properly understood as" is a useful tool for introducing a precise interpretation or perspective, signaling that a typical understanding might be insufficient. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights examples spanning science, news, and academic contexts. While it's suitable for refining comprehension, overusing it for obvious statements should be avoided. Alternatives like "can be correctly interpreted as" offer subtle shifts in emphasis. By using "can be properly understood as" judiciously, you enhance clarity and invite deeper understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be correctly interpreted as

This alternative focuses on the accuracy of the interpretation.

can be accurately seen as

This option emphasizes the correctness of the perception.

can be rightly considered as

This option highlights the justification for the consideration.

can be legitimately viewed as

This alternative stresses the permissibility and validity of the perspective.

can be fairly regarded as

This phrase underscores the impartiality of the viewpoint.

can be reasonably thought of as

This suggests a logical and sensible interpretation.

can be understood to mean

This concentrates on the implied significance.

can be taken to represent

This option focuses on the symbolic meaning or portrayal.

can be explained by

This alternative directly suggests a causal explanation.

can be characterized as

This offers a concise description or classification.

FAQs

How can I use "can be properly understood as" in a sentence?

This phrase introduces a specific interpretation. For example: "The economic downturn "can be properly understood as" a consequence of deregulation and risky investment strategies."

What are some alternatives to "can be properly understood as"?

Alternatives include "can be correctly interpreted as", "can be accurately seen as", or "can be rightly considered as", each offering a slightly different emphasis.

Is there a difference between "can be understood as" and "can be properly understood as"?

"Can be understood as" implies a general understanding, while "can be properly understood as" suggests a more accurate or specific interpretation that requires additional context or analysis. The latter emphasizes that without the correct framework, a misunderstanding is possible.

When is it appropriate to use "can be properly understood as"?

Use it when presenting a non-obvious or refined interpretation. It's suitable when the standard understanding might be incomplete or misleading without additional context or expert insight. For example, "The data "can be properly understood as" indicative of a larger trend, once seasonality is accounted for."