demonstrating understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "demonstrating understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the act of showing comprehension or insight into a particular subject or concept. Example: "The student's project was impressive, as it was clear that he was demonstrating understanding of the complex theories involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

7. Conduct short and more sustained research projects based on focused questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

The New York Times

7. Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects based on focused questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

The New York Times

Writing 7. Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects based on focused questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

The New York Times

7. Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects based on specific questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.

The New York Times

Students can read her account of how much she likes to rock out in various places (including the kitchen and garden), before demonstrating understanding by answering a series of simple questions.

The Guardian

The inclusion of various contexts or perspectives about the phenomena is important because, as Chu and Treagust (2014) found, only a few students were able to achieve stable, correct conceptions by perceiving the commonalities and demonstrating understanding of the scientific conceptions across contexts.

Asia-Pacific Science Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Compare these to any quotations or statements that demonstrate understanding of the separatist forces.

The New York Times

demonstrate understanding of the fundamentals of genetics, genomics, and molecular and cellular biology.

Stanford University

Only by listening to those fears can we demonstrate understanding for the difficulties settled communities experience in adjusting and move beyond the fears to secure tolerance and harmony.

The Guardian - Opinion

It provides an opportunity to demonstrate understanding of the dynamics of the issue(s), constrains, and potential solution(s).

Columbia University

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.6.1.D – Review the key ideas expressed and demonstrate understanding of multiple perspectives through reflection and paraphrasing.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When evaluating someone's performance, provide specific examples of how they are "demonstrating understanding". This adds credibility to your feedback.

Common error

While "demonstrating understanding" is appropriate in formal settings, it can sound overly verbose in casual conversation. Use simpler phrases like "showing you get it" or "making it clear" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "demonstrating understanding" functions as a gerund phrase. It often acts as a noun, describing the act of showing comprehension. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is valid for describing comprehension or insight. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in academic and professional contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "demonstrating understanding" is a grammatically correct gerund phrase used to describe the act of actively showing comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and its usage is most common in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While alternatives like "showing comprehension" or "exhibiting insight" exist, "demonstrating understanding" provides a formal and precise way to convey the display of knowledge. Be mindful to avoid overuse in informal settings where simpler expressions may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

showing comprehension

Focuses on the act of displaying understanding in a direct way.

exhibiting insight

Highlights the quality of deep understanding and perception.

displaying knowledge

Emphasizes the possession and presentation of information.

proving awareness

Underscores the act of confirming one's consciousness or knowledge.

conveying mastery

Highlights a high level of skill or knowledge being communicated.

articulating comprehension

Focuses on expressing understanding clearly and effectively.

illustrating grasp

Emphasizes providing examples or evidence to show understanding.

evidencing knowledge

Highlights the act of providing proof of understanding.

reflecting insight

Focuses on showing an understanding through thoughtful consideration.

validating awareness

Emphasizes confirming or justifying one's understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "demonstrating understanding" to describe actions that show comprehension, like "The student is "demonstrating understanding" of the material by correctly answering the questions".

What are some alternatives to "demonstrating understanding"?

Alternatives include "showing comprehension", "exhibiting insight", or "displaying knowledge", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "demonstrating understanding" or "showing understanding"?

"Demonstrating understanding" is more formal and emphasizes the active display of comprehension, while "showing understanding" is more general and can refer to a broader range of expressions of comprehension. Choose the one that best fits the context.

What does "demonstrating understanding" imply?

It implies that someone is actively and clearly showing that they comprehend a particular subject, concept, or situation. This often involves explaining, applying, or interpreting information accurately.