find mutual understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "find mutual understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of reaching a shared comprehension or agreement between parties in a conversation or negotiation. Example: "In order to resolve our differences, we must find mutual understanding and work together towards a solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Putin says Russia and Ukraine joined by huge number of common interests... Putin says he is sure Russia will find mutual understanding with Ukraine Updated at 9.38am BST 9.28am BST More from Amelia: On his hopes for the Geneva talks, Putin says: "We believe that it shouldn't just be a showcase dialogue".

The Guardian

In the near term, the tragedies that befall this suburban Jewish family break it apart, but the longer-term effects are different: parents and children find mutual understanding, siblings comfort each other, warring parties find common ground in grief, and those who approach the world with an open heart receive love in return — even if it's the last thing they do.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

This newly found mutual understanding hasn't come by divvying up tasks more equitably.

The New York Times

We found mutual understanding and interaction to be the main factor able to prevent and resolve conflict effectively.

Human Resources for Health

iVillage's mutual fund picker helps you find mutual funds that match your investment criteria.

Science Magazine

Article: Redmayne and Felicity Jones find mutual orbit.

Los Angeles Times

I think we will find mutual respect.

HuffPost

Try to find mutual  subjects to discuss.

WikiHow

They found a mutual understanding between themselves and married.

The New Yorker

The German television station ZDF cited Merkel – the daughter of a Lutheran clergyman – as saying that "we two daughters of vicars [will find] a mutual understanding".

The Guardian - Opinion

As media richness theory suggests, dealing with disagreements about goals and values requires richer information exchange involving face-to-face discussions to find room for mutual understanding.

BMJ Quality and Safety

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "find mutual understanding", ensure that the context clearly indicates the parties involved and the subject matter requiring understanding. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the message.

Common error

Avoid using "find mutual understanding" if the situation only involves superficial agreement or a temporary cease-fire. This phrase implies a deeper, more lasting comprehension than may exist.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "find mutual understanding" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the action of achieving a shared comprehension or agreement. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is indeed correct and perfectly usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "find mutual understanding" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the process of achieving shared comprehension. While not exceptionally frequent, it appears across a range of contexts including news, science and academia. Alternatives such as "establish common ground" or "reach a consensus" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, advising to ensure clarity regarding the parties involved. While the phrase carries a positive connotation, it is important to avoid overstating the level of understanding achieved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

find common ground

Highlights the discovery of shared interests or beliefs.

achieve mutual comprehension

Uses a more formal tone to describe a shared understanding.

establish common ground

Focuses on establishing a base of agreement, differing slightly from simply finding understanding.

develop a shared perspective

Highlights the development of a similar viewpoint, implying a deeper understanding.

reach a consensus

Emphasizes the outcome of an agreement rather than the process of finding understanding.

foster understanding

Emphasizes the act of promoting understanding, differing slightly from the process of finding it.

bridge the gap

Implies overcoming differences to reach a shared understanding.

build rapport

Focuses on building a relationship of trust and understanding, which can lead to finding common ground.

promote dialogue

Suggests encouraging communication to find understanding.

cultivate empathy

Focuses on developing empathetic understanding as a means to finding common ground.

FAQs

How can I use "find mutual understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "find mutual understanding" to describe the process of reaching a shared comprehension. For example: "The diplomats worked tirelessly to "find mutual understanding" on the trade agreement."

What can I say instead of "find mutual understanding"?

Alternatives to "find mutual understanding" include "establish common ground", "reach a consensus", or "develop a shared perspective", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to "find mutual understanding" or "reach a shared understanding"?

Both "find mutual understanding" and "reach a shared understanding" are valid. "Find mutual understanding" emphasizes the process of discovery, while "reach a shared understanding" focuses on the outcome. The better choice depends on the context.

What does it mean to "find mutual understanding" in negotiations?

In negotiations, to "find mutual understanding" means that all parties involved have achieved a clear comprehension of each other's positions, interests, and concerns. This does not necessarily mean they agree, but they understand the basis for disagreement and can work towards "establishing common ground".