definitive understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

"definitive understanding" is a valid and grammatically correct phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that you have a clear and precise understanding of something. For example, "After our meeting, I have a definitive understanding of the project's goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Coming up with a definitive understanding at this point is impossible, Allen says.

The Guardian

It does not claim to offer a definitive understanding of events, only an outsider's view.

The New York Times

We are several decades away from a definitive understanding, 20 or 30 years, but it could be sooner than that".

The Guardian

At present, however, there is no definitive understanding of why introducing the recirculated gases with the fuel is more effective than conventional FGR.

Combustion and Flame

So it's crucial that employers have clear rules about proper disclosure of the fees in such plans and a definitive understanding of when those fees are excessive.

The New York Times

And even a definitive understanding of neurobiology would not necessarily shed light on the interactions between genetics and environment that lead to many mental disorders.

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

Sony and the Jackson estate have entered a memorandum of understanding, with a definitive agreement anticipated by the end of this month.

Los Angeles Times

The lack of definitive definition for allied health precludes a comprehensive understanding of allied health quality service issues [ 9].

BMC Health Services Research

Then there is FISH FOREVER: The Definitive Guide to Understanding, Selecting, and Preparing Healthy, Delicious, and Environmentally Sustainable Seafood (Wiley, $34.95), by Paul Johnson, a former chef who founded and owns the legendary Monterey Fish Market, which supplies chefs like Alice Waters, Thomas Keller and Alain Ducasse.

The New York Times - Books

Here's your definitive guide to understanding the components of rosé.

Forbes

A rebuttal to this charge is that the theory was never advertised as the definitive answer to understanding intergroup relationships.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definitive understanding" when you want to emphasize a complete and authoritative grasp of a subject. It suggests that all aspects are clearly understood, leaving little room for ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "definitive understanding" if your comprehension is still evolving or lacks complete supporting evidence. It's better to qualify your understanding as "substantial" or "evolving" if certainty is not yet absolute.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitive understanding" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes a complete and authoritative comprehension of a subject, as supported by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

31%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definitive understanding" is a noun phrase used to express a complete and authoritative comprehension of a subject. It is grammatically correct and commonly found in scientific, news, and academic contexts. While versatile, it should be used judiciously to ensure the claimed understanding is indeed thorough and well-supported. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage in conveying a clear and precise grasp of a subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete grasp

Emphasizes thoroughness in understanding.

thorough comprehension

Highlights depth and completeness of understanding.

clear perception

Focuses on the clarity and accuracy of understanding.

precise knowledge

Stresses accuracy and exactness in understanding.

comprehensive insight

Highlights a broad and inclusive understanding.

absolute certainty

Focuses on the level of confidence in understanding something.

unquestionable knowledge

Emphasizes the irrefutable nature of the understanding.

assured awareness

Implies a confident and secure understanding.

established understanding

Focuses on understanding that is already confirmed or proven.

sound awareness

Conveys the stability of the understanding as secure and reasoned.

FAQs

How can I use "definitive understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "definitive understanding" to describe a clear and complete comprehension of a subject, such as, "After years of research, the scientists have reached a "definitive understanding" of the disease's progression."

What's a good alternative to "definitive understanding"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "complete grasp", "thorough comprehension", or "clear perception".

When is it appropriate to use "definitive understanding"?

Use "definitive understanding" when you are confident that your knowledge of a topic is complete, accurate, and leaves little room for further questioning or debate. Be careful not to overstate your comprehension if some uncertainty still exists.

What's the difference between "definitive understanding" and "basic understanding"?

"Definitive understanding" implies a complete and thorough comprehension, while "basic understanding" suggests only a foundational grasp of a subject. A "basic understanding" is introductory, whereas a "definitive understanding" is comprehensive and authoritative.