express understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

"express understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone has shown understanding of a situation or of someone else's point of view. For example, "The teacher listened to the student and was able to express understanding of the difficult situation she was in."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Serving and retired officials, policy experts and diplomats from friendly governments express understanding for the meagre results of Mr Obama's first-term diplomacy.

The Economist

Thus, a comprehensive review of Baltic religion is possible only on the express understanding that many findings are only hypothetical and require further research.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It sounded like it was going to cost almost as much to keep the museums closed as open – and then there's the fact that many of the pieces in the Lodgings were given on the express understanding that they would be displayed to the public.

The Guardian

In an elegant and sorrowful letter to Israel's ambassador in The Hague, Mr Zanoli explained that he could not in good conscience keep the Israeli medal.I understand that in your professional role, in which I am addressing you here, you may not be able to express understanding for my decision.

The Economist

They generally express understanding their parents' attitudes, and state that it was not caused by unwillingness but by lacking capabilities (Cf. Louie, 2012).

Comparative Migration Studies

Express understanding or ask for further clarification.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"They have generally expressed understanding".

The New York Times

He expressed understanding for the FARC.

The New Yorker

The Kremlin said Obama expressed "understanding" at Putin's cancellation.

The Guardian

Derek Baker, 46, also expressed understanding for Bishop Sisk's predicament.

The New York Times

Sam expresses understanding, and suggests that the other girl should have also been punished.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "express understanding", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being understood. Providing specific details strengthens the communication.

Common error

Avoid using "express understanding" superficially. Ensure your actions and words genuinely reflect the understanding you claim to convey, otherwise it can come across as insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "express understanding" functions as a verbal expression used to indicate comprehension or empathy towards a situation or another person's feelings. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "express understanding" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that signifies conveying comprehension or empathy. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While the phrase isn't exceptionally common, it sees use across various contexts, including News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias. Alternative phrases such as "show comprehension" or "demonstrate empathy" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. When using "express understanding", ensure your words and actions genuinely reflect the understanding you intend to communicate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show comprehension

Focuses on demonstrating an intellectual grasp of the situation.

demonstrate empathy

Emphasizes the emotional aspect of understanding another person's feelings.

convey sympathy

Highlights the communication of shared feelings and concern.

articulate awareness

Stresses the ability to clearly state one's understanding.

voice recognition

Focuses on acknowledging and validating someone's perspective.

acknowledge perception

Highlights the acceptance of someone's way of interpreting reality.

indicate agreement

Highlights the communication of accord and concurrence.

register approval

Stresses the formal communication of endorsement and support.

grant concession

Implies a willingness to yield a point in light of understanding.

display insight

Emphasizes the demonstration of a deep and intuitive understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "express understanding" to describe showing empathy or comprehension. For example: "The therapist was able to "express understanding" for her client's feelings."

What are some alternatives to "express understanding"?

Alternatives include "show comprehension", "demonstrate empathy", or "convey sympathy" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to "express understanding" or "show understanding"?

Both "express understanding" and "show understanding" are correct. "Express" emphasizes the communication aspect, while "show" focuses on the demonstration aspect.

What's the difference between "express understanding" and "express sympathy"?

"Express understanding" focuses on cognitive comprehension, while "express sympathy" focuses on sharing and acknowledging someone's feelings.