is that understood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is that understood" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to confirm whether someone comprehends the information or instructions provided. Example: "Please ensure that all team members are aware of the new policy changes. Is that understood?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Is that understood?" There was never much chance of Jackie singing "My Way", but he reported the threat, which had also contained about 30 expletives, to the ents officer, who listened sympathetically.

Independent

Is that understood?

The New York Times

Is that understood?" In a whisper, the defendant assented.

The New York Times

Is that understood?" The man fell instantly silent, as if injected with some sort of meekness serum.

Independent

There won't be a shot fired without my permission, is that understood?' Then I walked out of the room".

The Guardian

And I do not owe my (campaign) committee any money, is that understood?" His defense attorney Sam Adam Jr., who was on Blagojevich's defense team for a time, added of his client that "he is out here telling the truth and he will be vindicated," CBS Chicago reports.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Instead, she pursues a relationship with the being that understands her best, TiVo.

The New York Times

"I don't think that's that well understood sometimes.

The New York Times - Sports

The truth may be that G4S understands anything could happen.

The Guardian - Business

"I'm somebody that understands and appreciates their work".

The New York Times - Arts

What I wanted to do is understand that and understand how teenagers live with the disease.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is that understood" when you need to ensure the listener acknowledges the information and any associated expectations, especially after giving instructions or setting boundaries.

Common error

Avoid using "is that understood" in casual conversations or when providing simple information, as it can come across as overly authoritative or condescending. In such situations, use gentler alternatives like "do you understand?" or "does that make sense?"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is that understood" primarily functions as an interrogative tag question. It seeks confirmation that the preceding statement or instruction has been comprehended. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and serves to ensure understanding.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is that understood" is a grammatically correct and usable interrogative confirmation employed to ensure that a preceding statement or instruction has been clearly comprehended. Ludwig AI confirms this, and the examples demonstrate its usage in various contexts, predominantly within News & Media. While its function is to seek confirmation and agreement, the phrase carries a somewhat formal register. For less formal situations, alternatives such as "do you understand?" or "is that clear?" might be more appropriate. However, when clarity and acknowledgement are paramount, "is that understood" serves as an effective tool.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do you understand

This is a more direct and neutral way to ask if someone comprehends.

is that clear

This emphasizes the clarity of the information being conveyed.

have you got it

British English variant of "do you understand".

are we clear

This implies a mutual understanding and agreement.

do you follow

This asks if someone is following the line of reasoning or instructions.

got it

A very informal and concise way to confirm understanding.

understood

A simple confirmation that the information has been received and comprehended.

are you with me

This asks if someone is understanding and agreeing with the speaker's viewpoint.

can you dig it

A slang term asking about someone's understanding.

copy that

An informal way to acknowledge an order or instruction, often used in military or radio communication.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "is that understood"?

The phrase "is that understood" is best used after giving instructions, setting expectations, or establishing boundaries, particularly when you need to ensure the listener acknowledges and comprehends the information.

What are some alternatives to "is that understood"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "do you understand", "is that clear", or "are we clear".

Is "is that understood" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "is that understood" can sound somewhat formal or authoritative. In casual settings, it's often better to use a more relaxed phrase like "do you get it?" or "does that make sense?"

How can I use "is that understood" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "All employees must adhere to the new safety regulations. "Is that understood"?"