have a basic comprehension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have a basic comprehension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's understanding or grasp of a subject or concept at a fundamental level. Example: "Although she is new to the field, she has a basic comprehension of the key principles involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Three, you have to make sure that you have to have a basic comprehension of the strategy the person's using so that when times get tough, as they inevitably do, you're not gonna get shaken loose at the worst possible time.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It wasn't easy, but by the end of our visit she had a basic comprehension that these were two different diseases and the medicines were treating entirely different things.

Huffington Post

background: In order to best understand the reasons for and outcomes of the historical development of capital punishment in the United States, students should have a basic understanding of the death penalty before working with this lesson plan to assure their complete comprehension of its concepts.

The New York Times

background: In order to best understand the reasons for and outcomes of the historical development of our judiciary nomination process, students should have a basic understanding of the three branches of American government, the system of checks and balances, and the justice system before working with this lesson plan to assure their complete comprehension of its concepts.

The New York Times

"I did not have a basic training.

The New York Times - Arts

They do have a basic understanding.

The New York Times - Science

People have a basic need to connect.

Forbes

Have A basic idea.

WikiHow

Do have a basic understanding of sewing.

WikiHow

Have a basic understanding of Excel.

WikiHow

To ruck have a basic form.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "have a basic comprehension", ensure the context clarifies what subject or concept is being understood. For example, "have a basic comprehension of quantum physics" provides more clarity than simply "have a basic comprehension".

Common error

Avoid assuming that someone who "has a basic comprehension" possesses sufficient knowledge for complex tasks. Basic comprehension is a starting point, not the end goal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have a basic comprehension" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a state of understanding at an elementary level. As suggested by Ludwig, it denotes possessing a foundational grasp of a subject or concept.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "have a basic comprehension" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signifies a fundamental understanding of a subject. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, wiki and scientific content. While numerous alternative phrases exist, such as "possess a fundamental understanding", the choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember to provide context about what is being comprehended and avoid overestimating the extent of someone's knowledge based solely on this phrase. Also, be mindful of not using "about" after it. When aiming for depth, start by "having a basic comprehension". By understanding the potential pitfalls and stylistic preferences, you can use the phrase effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

possess a fundamental understanding

Emphasizes the possession of understanding rather than the act of comprehending.

have a rudimentary grasp

Highlights a preliminary or initial level of understanding.

demonstrate a basic understanding

Focuses on showing or exhibiting comprehension.

exhibit a foundational knowledge

Stresses the knowledge base as the foundation.

have a general awareness

Indicates a broader but less detailed understanding.

possess an elementary understanding

Highlights the simplicity and fundamental nature of comprehension.

have a simple understanding

Focuses on the lack of complexity in the comprehension.

show a primary comprehension

Points out the initial or first level of understanding.

achieve a basic literacy

Emphasizes literacy as the foundation of understanding.

gain a basic insight

Highlights the attainment of a fundamental level of understanding.

FAQs

How can I improve my "have a basic comprehension" of a new topic?

Start with introductory materials, focus on key concepts, and gradually increase the complexity of the information you consume. Active recall and summarizing information in your own words can also help solidify understanding.

What's the difference between "have a basic understanding" and "have a basic comprehension"?

While similar, "have a basic understanding" often implies a slightly broader and more intuitive grasp, whereas "have a basic comprehension" can suggest a more structured and factual understanding.

Is it correct to say "have a basic comprehension about" something?

While grammatically acceptable, it's more common and stylistically preferable to say "have a basic comprehension of" something. For instance, "have a basic comprehension of the subject matter".

What are the signs that someone does not "have a basic comprehension" of a topic?

Signs can include an inability to explain core concepts in simple terms, frequent misunderstandings of related information, and difficulty applying the knowledge to practical situations.