conceptual understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "conceptual understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to a general understanding of an idea or concept. For example: "The goal of the class was to help students gain a conceptual understanding of the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The other key thing is that teaching must be focused on developing conceptual understanding.

The Guardian

The mastery approach aims to deepen pupils' conceptual understanding of mathematical concepts, covering fewer topics but in greater depth.

The Guardian

Chimpanzees seem to function politically without the need for a conceptual understanding of either fidelity or betrayal, domination or submission.

The New Yorker

But professional mathematicians say the activists have set up a false dichotomy between conceptual understanding and basic skills.

The New York Times

But the course also delves into classical Newtownian physics, with a goal of "conceptual understanding" rather than mastery.

The New York Times

basic Mechanics Conceptual Understanding test.

International Journal of STEM Education

Conceptual understanding of evolution by natural selection.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Another concern was limited conceptual understanding of science.

Asia-Pacific Science Education

Representational fluency is an important aspect of deep conceptual understanding.

Security Informatics

We call such ability "conceptual understanding" of a domain.

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Our findings expand conceptual understanding of this nonneoplastic blood disorder.

Cancer Genetics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "conceptual understanding" to differentiate between rote learning and genuine comprehension.

Common error

Avoid using "conceptual understanding" when you actually mean the ability to remember and recite facts. Ensure you're referring to a deeper, interconnected understanding of the principles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "conceptual understanding" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It refers to the abstract idea of comprehending the underlying principles and relationships within a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Examples show it modifying various fields such as science, mathematics, and physics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

23%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "conceptual understanding" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that emphasizes the importance of grasping the deeper meaning and interrelationships within a subject. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is useful in the English language to refer to a general understanding of an idea or concept. It appears frequently in academic and scientific contexts, as well as in news and media. While related phrases like "theoretical understanding" or "deep understanding" can be used, "conceptual understanding" specifically highlights the value of comprehensive knowledge over rote memorization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

theoretical understanding

Focuses on the theoretical aspects of understanding rather than a general grasp of concepts.

deep understanding

Emphasizes the depth of comprehension as opposed to a basic understanding.

thorough comprehension

Highlights the completeness of understanding, suggesting nothing is missed.

cognitive grasp

Uses a more technical term, 'cognitive', to describe the mental process of understanding.

intellectual mastery

Suggests a high level of proficiency and control over the concept.

comprehensive knowledge

Stresses the breadth and extent of the acquired knowledge.

profound insight

Indicates a deep and penetrating level of understanding.

informed perspective

Implies understanding that shapes one's viewpoint or opinion.

substantive knowledge

Focuses on the importance and relevance of the understanding.

abstract apprehension

Highlights an abstract or theoretical grasp of a concept.

FAQs

How do you use "conceptual understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "conceptual understanding" to describe someone's grasp of a subject. For example, "The course aims to improve students' conceptual understanding of physics."

What's an alternative to "conceptual understanding"?

Alternatives include "theoretical understanding", "deep understanding", or "thorough comprehension", depending on the specific context.

What does it mean to have a "conceptual understanding" of something?

Having a "conceptual understanding" means you grasp the underlying principles and relationships within a topic, rather than just memorizing facts.

Is "conceptual understanding" the same as "practical knowledge"?

"Conceptual understanding" refers to grasping the theory behind something, while "practical knowledge" is about knowing how to do something. They are complementary but distinct.