instead of understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instead of understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when contrasting two actions or states, indicating a preference for one over the other. Example: "She chose to criticize him instead of understanding his perspective."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

"Instead of understanding all these things about people, you could understand who was connected to who," said Eric Wheeler, the chief executive of 33Across.

The New York Times

Instead of understanding compatibilism and incompatibilism as propositions that are contradictories, we can understand them as propositions that are contraries.

SEP

Instead of understanding, Wilde lampoons.

The New Yorker

It is no good to judge us instead of understanding us.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We are being offered palliatives instead of understanding the depth of this problem.

The Guardian

He beats himself up too much instead of understanding that it's part of the game.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Instead of punishment, understanding what motivates different gang members could lead to a therapeutic and even preventive approach.

The Guardian

Instead of fully understanding the social medium and the rapidly evolving mobile network, they are trying to apply old rules to a new game.

Huffington Post

Amid controversy over President Trump's immigration executive order barring travel to the United States from seven Muslim-majority countries, Pope Francis on Wednesday echoed his previous comments about building bridges of understanding instead of walls, according to the Associated Press.

The Washington Post

Emphasis is placed upon achieving a depth of understanding instead of upon generalization of the findings [ 45].

BMC Pediatrics

However, the results are transferable to populations/contexts similar in characteristics as data have been carefully collected and analysed, with the main aim of understanding instead of seeking explanations [ 18, 15].

BMC International Health and Human Rights

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "instead of understanding" to clearly contrast an action or state with the act of comprehension, ensuring the contrast is intentional and meaningful. This phrase works well when you want to emphasize a choice or a different path taken.

Common error

Avoid using "instead of understanding" when the lack of understanding is unintentional or due to a lack of information. This phrase implies a deliberate choice, so ensure the context reflects this.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instead of understanding" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a contrast. It sets up an alternative action, state, or perspective in opposition to the act of understanding. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English, highlighting its role in contrasting actions or states.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

34%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "instead of understanding" is a versatile phrase used to express a deliberate contrast with the act of comprehension. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. Its strength lies in highlighting a conscious choice to prioritize something else over understanding. As Ludwig's examples show, this phrase commonly appears in news articles, scientific publications, and academic discussions, suggesting its appropriateness for neutral to formal contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the contrast is intentional and clearly defined, avoiding its use when the lack of understanding is unintentional. Using alternatives like "rather than understanding" or "in lieu of understanding" can fine-tune the nuance of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rather than understanding

Formal alternative, emphasizing preference against comprehension.

instead of comprehending

Uses a synonym for understanding, maintaining the structure.

in lieu of understanding

Formal alternative, suggesting replacement of understanding.

in place of understanding

Suggests substituting understanding with another action or state.

as opposed to understanding

Highlights a direct contrast with comprehension.

ignoring understanding

Focuses on the deliberate act of disregarding comprehension.

without attempting to understand

Highlights the absence of effort to comprehend.

neglecting to understand

Focuses on the act of not understanding.

rather than gaining insight

Emphasizes the lack of insight compared to another action.

eschewing understanding

Formal, indicates avoiding or deliberately rejecting understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "instead of understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "instead of understanding" to contrast comprehension with another action or state. For instance, "Instead of understanding the problem, she chose to ignore it".

What are some alternatives to "instead of understanding"?

Alternatives include "rather than understanding", "in lieu of understanding", or "as opposed to understanding". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "in place of understanding"?

Yes, "in place of understanding" is a valid alternative to "instead of understanding". It suggests that understanding is being substituted with something else.

What's the difference between "instead of understanding" and "without understanding"?

"Instead of understanding" implies a deliberate choice not to understand, while "without understanding" simply indicates a lack of comprehension, without necessarily implying a choice.