great grasp

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "great grasp" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's strong understanding or comprehension of a subject or skill. Example: "Her great grasp of the subject matter impressed the entire class during the presentation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

George W. Bush, with no great grasp of world affairs, chose Dick Cheney to add experience.

The New York Times

He also has a great grasp of what really matters in life.

The New York Times

And he could be your shrink and he's got a great grasp of it all.

The Guardian - Film

I think she could tell from my eyes that I did not have a great grasp of "four".

The New Yorker

Showed a great grasp of a variety of the challenges that are out there, and some of the opportunities as well".

The New Yorker

It doesn't take a great grasp of economics to figure out that when firms cut down on hiring the unemployment rate should increase.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

An intelligence official who was granted anonymity to discuss classified information said the closing of the bin Laden unit reflected a greater grasp of the organization.

The New York Times

could mean that the average congressperson would have a greater grasp of basic concepts in math and science, including the law of evolution, as well as addition and subtraction.

The New Yorker

Certainly, she seems to have a greater grasp of who or what the revenants are than most, but the issue of her own background remains something of a mystery.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"In some ways I have some respect for Mrs. Clinton," said Sarah J. Oliver, a sales manager who attended the Women for Lazio event in Syracuse, "but I don't think she can have a greater grasp of New York issues than Rick Lazio".

The New York Times

I have a greater grasp on Norman's life than I do Peg's by virtue of his many varied autobiographical efforts and his meticulous preservation of his journals, essays, work-related materials, and correspondence dating back into his year spent as an exchange student at The Stowe School in 1937-1938 (where he became acquainted with Christopher Robin, son of AA Milne, author of Winnie the Pooh).

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's expertise, use "great grasp" to emphasize not only their understanding but also their ability to apply that knowledge effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "great grasp" when a more specific term is appropriate. For example, instead of saying someone has a "great grasp" of physics, specify if they excel in quantum mechanics or thermodynamics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "great grasp" functions as a descriptive phrase, where 'great' modifies the noun 'grasp'. It indicates a high level of understanding or proficiency in a particular subject or skill. This is supported by Ludwig AI and its examples that showcase its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

20%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "great grasp" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase used to describe someone's strong understanding or comprehension of a subject. As evidenced by Ludwig's analysis and the examples provided, it is used across various contexts, including news, science and academia, with a neutral register. While alternatives like "strong understanding" or "firm grasp" exist, "great grasp" effectively conveys both knowledge and the ability to apply it. Use it to emphasize someone's expertise, remembering to be specific when necessary for clarity. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and versatility of this expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

amazing grasp

Replaces "great" with a more emphatic adjective.

wonderful grasp

Substitutes "great" with a different positive adjective, implying admiration.

deep understanding

Uses a different noun and adjective to convey a similar meaning.

thorough comprehension

Employs a more formal vocabulary to express complete understanding.

firm grasp

Indicates a secure and solid understanding.

solid understanding

Replaces the noun, focusing on the understanding itself being strong.

comprehensive knowledge

Uses an alternative noun highlighting a broad and complete awareness.

excellent command

Focuses on the ability to control or use something skillfully.

strong command

Indicates a powerful ability to use or control something effectively.

broad knowledge

Highlights the extensive scope of one's understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "great grasp" in a sentence?

You can use "great grasp" to describe someone's strong understanding of a subject, as in, "She has a "great grasp" of economic principles."

What are some alternatives to "great grasp"?

Some alternatives include "strong understanding", "firm grasp", or "comprehensive knowledge", depending on the context.

Is "great grasp on" grammatically correct?

While "great grasp" is grammatically sound, including "on" can sometimes improve the flow and clarity, especially when followed by the subject matter (e.g., "a great grasp on the situation").

What's the difference between "great grasp" and "good understanding"?

"Great grasp" implies a deeper, more intuitive understanding than a "good understanding". The former suggests not just knowing the facts, but also how to apply them effectively.