intimate understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

"intimate understanding" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the relationship between two people that is based on trust, mutual understanding, and mutual respect. For example, you might say, "John and Mary shared an intimate understanding of one another's feelings, which was the foundation of their strong marriage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Gone was Mr. Blass's intimate understanding of his clients' love of the good life.

The New York Times - Style

His influence derived from his intimate understanding of those who turned to him for worship.

The New York Times

"I thought it would give us a more intimate understanding of each other," he told me.

The New Yorker

Many Catholics with an intimate understanding of Islam share this doubt.

The New Yorker

The result is an intimate understanding of Peter as a flawed, not always likeable central character.

Independent

Mr. Brennan brings intimate understanding of the watch-list system in question in the review.

The New York Times

His staff is meticulously trained and has an intimate understanding of the dishes and wines served.

The New York Times

It is an advantage because he must have an intimate understanding of what he needs to do to beat Nadal.

The New York Times - Sports

This exhibition promises a more intimate understanding of the 17th-century painter whose works are highlights of this collection.

The Guardian

Gary Winnick, with an intimate understanding of how to sell to the Street, had a very good story.

The New York Times

The show is an effusive demonstration of Ms. Bloom's more intimate understanding of misfortune as a blessing in disguise.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's expertise, use "intimate understanding" to convey not just knowledge but also a deep, personal connection to the subject. It's more impactful than simply saying "knowledge of".

Common error

Avoid using "intimate understanding" when a superficial grasp is meant. This phrase implies a deep, almost intuitive level of comprehension, not just basic awareness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intimate understanding" functions as a noun phrase, where "intimate" modifies "understanding", indicating a deep and thorough comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intimate understanding" is a valid and frequently used phrase that denotes a deep, thorough, and often personal comprehension of a subject. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples demonstrates its prevalence across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. It functions as a noun phrase, conveying profound knowledge and a strong connection to the topic. Ludwig AI underscores the phrase's grammatical correctness. For alternative phrasing, consider "deep comprehension" or "profound insight" to achieve similar nuanced meanings. It is important to ensure the usage is accurate in conveying a deep level of understanding instead of basic awareness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deep comprehension

This alternative emphasizes the depth of knowledge and cognitive grasp.

profound insight

This focuses on a high level of understanding and intuition.

thorough grasp

This suggests a complete and comprehensive understanding of a subject.

close familiarity

This alternative refers to a deep knowledge acquired through direct experience and sustained exposure.

personal connection

This implies a relationship built on empathy, shared experience and mutual trust.

comprehensive awareness

This denotes complete understanding of something, perceiving all aspects.

keen perception

This emphasizes an acute ability to notice and understand things that are not obvious.

extensive knowledge

This indicates a broad and detailed understanding of a particular subject.

sympathetic insight

This highlights understanding based on empathy and shared feelings.

intuitive awareness

This suggests a natural and instinctive understanding, without the need for conscious reasoning.

FAQs

How can I use "intimate understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "intimate understanding" to describe a deep and thorough comprehension of a subject, for example: "The researcher has an "intimate understanding" of the human brain."

What phrases are similar to "intimate understanding"?

Alternatives include "deep comprehension", "profound insight", or "thorough grasp", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Is it appropriate to use "intimate understanding" in formal writing?

Yes, "intimate understanding" is suitable for formal writing when you want to emphasize a deep and personal level of comprehension, as opposed to mere surface knowledge.

How does "intimate understanding" differ from "good understanding"?

"Intimate understanding" suggests a depth of knowledge and connection that goes beyond a "good understanding". It implies a more nuanced and personal grasp of the subject.