come to understand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "come to understand" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express that someone has recently learned or discovered a concept, especially through effort or experience. For example: "Through my research, I have come to understand the true nature of the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Smart entrepreneurs come to understand this.

The New York Times

I come to understand the italics.

The Guardian - Books

I had come to understand the Jacobys.

The New York Times

I thought IDS had come to understand such hopelessness.

Independent

They come to understand what they've done in the world.

The New York Times - Arts

He has come to understand their suspicions, he said.

The New York Times

But more than anything we have come to understand context.

The New Yorker

Since then, I have come to understand him more.

The New York Times

Because as we investigate something we come to understand it.

The New York Times

"I hope that in time you'll come to understand".

The New York Times - Books

We've come to understand that our building sells itself".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "come to understand" to describe a gradual process of learning or realization, often based on experience or reflection.

Common error

Avoid using "come to understand" when a more direct verb like "understand" or "realize" would be more concise and appropriate. The phrase implies a progression of understanding rather than an immediate grasp.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "come to understand" functions as a verb phrase indicating a process of gradually gaining comprehension or knowledge. It describes a shift in perception or awareness that develops over time. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "come to understand" is a verb phrase used to express a gradual process of gaining comprehension or knowledge. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It is most commonly found in news and media, with a significant presence in science as well. When writing, remember that it implies a progression, making it distinct from simply "understand". Alternatives such as "begin to grasp" or "realize" can offer different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become aware of

Focuses on gaining consciousness or knowledge of something.

realize

A more direct and immediate way of expressing understanding.

learn

A general term for acquiring knowledge or skill.

start to comprehend

Highlights the commencement of a deeper level of understanding.

recognize

Highlights the identification and acknowledgement of something.

discover

Highlights the finding or uncovering of new information.

begin to grasp

Focuses on the initial stage of understanding something.

figure out

Implies a process of working through something to understand it.

gain insight into

Emphasizes acquiring a deeper, more profound understanding.

grow to appreciate

Emphasizes the development of understanding and value over time.

FAQs

How can I use "come to understand" in a sentence?

Use "come to understand" to express a gradual process of learning or realization over time. For example, "Over the years, I've "come to understand" the importance of patience."

What are some alternatives to "come to understand"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "begin to grasp", "realize", or "become aware of".

What's the difference between "come to understand" and "understand"?

"Come to understand" implies a process of gradually gaining understanding, while "understand" suggests a more immediate or complete comprehension.

Is it always necessary to use "come to" before "understand"?

No, using "come to" adds a nuance of gradual realization. If you want to express a simple state of knowing, "understand" is sufficient. For example, "I understand the instructions" is correct without "come to".