general understandings

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "general understandings" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to broad or common knowledge or agreements about a particular topic or situation. Example: "In our discussions, we reached some general understandings about the project's goals and timelines."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

As generally understood — general understandings, including clichés and stereotypes, being grist for the show's mill — the holiday commemorates a neighborly feast that was shared by Pilgrims and Indians in 1621: a true event that was little known for two centuries, until mention of it turned up in a footnote to a document from the time.

The New Yorker

Despite these general understandings, conventional inhalers are found to be inefficient and highly variable in delivering the desired dose to patients [18].

Nanoscale Research Letters

Simultaneously, the meetings aimed to incorporate experiences and knowledge of the local people residing in the area in order to account for the experiences and learning that they have gathered on the basis of their general understandings.

Environmental Systems Research

In contrast to general understandings on a DMFC with active fuel and reactant gas, our simulation results for a passive DMFC used in this study indicated that the catalysis of the cathode appeared to be the most important parameter.

Journal of Power Sources

To that end, it is useful to consider how the rewards of engaging with HIV medicine identified in this paper might inform more general understandings of the rewards of pursuing a career in general practice.

BMC Family Practice

Informed consent for research on a genetic condition in Ethiopia similarly drew successfully on general understandings of inheritance, and pointed to limitations in making detailed associations with inheritance patterns [ 50].

BMC Medical Ethics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

It's a general understanding of love".

The Guardian - Music

"There was almost a general understanding that — guess what?

The New York Times

The idea is for the robot to have general understanding".

The New Yorker

"My general understanding is that acupuncture really just involves a handful of punctures," he said.

The New York Times

But the general understanding is that directors direct and managers manage.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "general understandings" when you want to convey that knowledge or beliefs are not necessarily precise or detailed, but are broadly accepted.

Common error

Avoid using "general understandings" when referring to niche or specialized knowledge. The phrase implies a broader level of awareness than may be accurate in specific fields.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general understandings" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to the collectively held knowledge, beliefs, or assumptions within a group or society. As Ludwig AI explains, its use is acceptable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

41%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "general understandings" is a grammatically sound and acceptably used term that refers to common or shared knowledge within a group or society. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears in a variety of contexts, most frequently in science and news media. When using this phrase, it is important to ensure clarity about whose understandings are being referenced and to avoid overstating the universality of the knowledge. Alternatives like "common knowledge" or "accepted norms" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context. By considering these nuances, writers can effectively communicate the intended meaning with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

common knowledge

Focuses on the widespread awareness of information.

prevailing wisdom

Highlights the dominant or accepted belief within a group.

accepted norms

Emphasizes the standards or expectations commonly followed.

shared beliefs

Focuses on the ideas or principles held in common by a group.

collective assumptions

Highlights the underlying, often unstated, premises held by a group.

broad consensus

Implies a widespread agreement on a particular issue.

popular notions

Refers to ideas that are widely held or fashionable.

standard interpretations

Emphasizes the conventional or typical way of understanding something.

usual conceptions

Focuses on the typical or customary mental representations.

established views

Highlights opinions or perspectives that are well-recognized and accepted.

FAQs

How can "general understandings" be used in a sentence?

You can use "general understandings" to refer to common knowledge or beliefs, such as, "Despite the "general understandings", conventional inhalers are found to be inefficient."

What are some alternatives to using "general understandings"?

Alternatives include "common knowledge", "accepted norms", or "shared beliefs" depending on the specific context. For example, you might say "common knowledge" instead of ""general understandings"" if you are talking about something widely known.

Is it more appropriate to say "general understanding" or "general understandings"?

Both are correct, but "general understanding" typically refers to a single concept or area of comprehension, while "general understandings" refers to multiple areas of common knowledge or agreements.

What's the difference between "general understandings" and "misconceptions"?

"General understandings" refer to commonly held, although not necessarily accurate, beliefs or knowledge, while "misconceptions" are explicitly incorrect or misunderstood ideas. General understandings might evolve or be refined, while misconceptions need to be corrected.