develop a mutual understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "develop a mutual understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in contexts where two or more parties are working towards a shared comprehension or agreement on a particular issue or topic. Example: "In order to resolve the conflict, it is essential for both sides to develop a mutual understanding of each other's perspectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The goal of the research is to develop a mutual understanding of common values and so support future developments.

Journal of Cleaner Production

The risk oversight process enables the board and management to develop a mutual understanding regarding the risks the company faces over time as it executes its business model for creating enterprise value.

Harvard University

However, social service providers and law enforcement can make a difference in the lives of drug users if they develop a mutual understanding of the problems facing communities and strive to bridge the difference in perspectives and align forces to create viable and alternative solutions to addressing drug related harm.

Huffington Post

All parties must work together to share information and develop a mutual understanding of the project goals and outcomes.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Seeking to open up links with such figures/establishments and to develop a mutual understanding of the help needed might result in EIS services appearing more relevant and accessible to the communities they serve.

BMC Psychiatry

Subsequently, the communication and representation role of peer-leaders in Nairobi became more formalised, as regular meetings were established with research staff to discuss issues of concern, develop a mutual understanding of community needs, undertake problem solving and develop communication strategies.

Globalization and Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The time and effort that companies and institutional investors have spent developing a mutual understanding of eachother's concerns have narrowed the opportunities for activists at high-profile companies, and the returns of activist funds overall are down in 2016.

Columbia University

In the documentary, Atwater and Ellis both say that, because they were thrown together in a single office, and were going on missions together in local schools (one is briefly seen in "The Best of Enemies"), they started conversing and then kept going (Ellis says, "We begin to talk about what was on our heart"); from there, they developed a mutual understanding.

The New Yorker

It's worth taking the time to get everyone on the same page by establishing corporate values, developing a mutual understanding of them, and then making them an integral part of your everyday work experience — and this is all much easier to accomplish when your team is still small.

Harvard Business Review

12 Job rotation and discussion platforms are suggested as useful ways of developing a mutual understanding of professionals' role, tasks and responsibilities among healthcare staff across care levels.

BMJ Open

The educators believed that feedback they provided to staff was crucial in developing a mutual understanding which empowered patients to engage in safe behaviours, such as ringing the call bell for assistance.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "develop a mutual understanding", actively listen to different perspectives and ask clarifying questions to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Common error

Avoid assuming that others share your understanding of a situation or concept. Always verify understanding through open dialogue and active listening.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "develop a mutual understanding" functions as a verbal phrase that indicates an action or process of establishing a shared comprehension between two or more parties. Ludwig's examples show its use in various contexts, emphasizing the active effort to create this shared understanding.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "develop a mutual understanding" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that signifies the process of establishing a shared comprehension between individuals or groups. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase's validity and widespread use. It's particularly common in scientific, academic, and news contexts. To use this phrase effectively, prioritize active listening and verification of understanding to avoid assumptions. Alternatives like ""foster a common understanding"" or "establish a common ground" can be used to add variety to your writing. Emphasizing open communication and cultural sensitivity will greatly assist in achieving a truly "mutual understanding" in any situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foster a common understanding

Focuses on nurturing a shared understanding over time.

cultivate a shared perspective

Emphasizes the growth of a shared viewpoint.

establish a common ground

Highlights finding areas of agreement as a foundation.

build a consensus

Implies reaching an agreement through discussion.

forge a common interpretation

Focuses on creating a unified understanding of something specific.

reach a shared conclusion

Suggests arriving at the same understanding after deliberation.

achieve mutual comprehension

Formal alternative, focuses on successful understanding.

gain a common insight

Emphasizes the moment of shared understanding.

construct a shared reality

Highlights the creation of a joint understanding of the world.

promote reciprocal understanding

Focuses on the balanced exchange of understanding between parties.

FAQs

How can I "develop a mutual understanding" in a team project?

Encourage open communication, active listening, and regular check-ins to ensure everyone is aligned on goals and tasks. Use tools and techniques like brainstorming or mind mapping to "foster a common understanding".

What are the benefits of "developing a mutual understanding" in negotiations?

It helps build trust, reduces misunderstandings, and increases the likelihood of finding mutually beneficial solutions. "Establishing a common ground" can lead to more effective and lasting agreements.

Is "develop a mutual understanding" interchangeable with "reach a consensus"?

While related, they are not fully interchangeable. "Develop a mutual understanding" implies a shared comprehension, whereas "build a consensus" suggests reaching an agreement or decision that everyone supports, even if they don't fully agree.

What's the first step to take when trying to "develop a mutual understanding" with someone from a different cultural background?

Begin by acknowledging and respecting cultural differences. Showing a genuine interest in learning about their background can "promote reciprocal understanding" and build a stronger foundation for communication.