is understood to have

USAGE SUMMARY

"is understood to have" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is believed or assumed to be true or to have happened. It can also be used to convey a sense of speculation or inference. Here is an example: "According to historical records, the Egyptian pyramids were built around 2500 BC, but some experts believe they may actually be older, as they are understood to have required advanced engineering knowledge and techniques that were not thought to exist at that time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He is understood to have had a more pressing engagement.

The Guardian - Sport

Universal is understood to have arranged alternative distribution.

The Guardian - Business

The winger is understood to have been deeply disillusioned.

The Guardian - Sport

Accordingly, the record is understood to have instantly gone platinum.

The Guardian - Music

The meeting is understood to have lasted about 90 minutes.

The Guardian

Mikel is understood to have visited Clattenburg in his room.

The Guardian - Sport

Clarke is understood to have prepared meticulously for the committee.

The Guardian

Lewis is understood to have put three options to MacLennan.

The Guardian

The offer is understood to have been heavily oversubscribed.

The Guardian - Business

Carlisle is understood to have had surgery on Tuesday morning.

The Guardian - Sport

Ed Miliband is understood to have pressed Lewis to stand.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is understood to have" when conveying information believed to be true based on indirect evidence or general consensus, rather than direct proof. Avoid using it when concrete evidence is available; instead, state the facts directly.

Common error

While "is understood to have" is acceptable, overuse in formal writing can weaken your argument. Opt for more direct and assertive phrasing when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is understood to have" functions as a hedge, softening claims by indicating that information is based on inference or general consensus rather than direct, verifiable proof. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage, as demonstrated in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is understood to have" is a versatile tool for conveying information based on inference or consensus. Ludwig AI confirms the common usage of this phrase, primarily within news and media contexts. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, it's important to use it judiciously, particularly in formal writing where direct evidence and assertive language are preferred. Alternatives like "is believed to have" or "is thought to have" offer subtle shifts in meaning, allowing for more precise communication. Using "is understood to have" judiciously maintains credibility while acknowledging the limitations of available information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is known to have

Suggests established knowledge or fact.

is believed to have

Emphasizes belief rather than implicit understanding.

is thought to have

Suggests a common opinion or consideration.

is considered to have

Highlights a formal evaluation or judgment.

is reported to have

Implies information received from a specific source.

reportedly has

Similar to 'is reported to have' but can suggest a less formal source.

is presumed to have

Highlights a assumption based on some proof but not certainty.

is rumored to have

Indicates the information is based on unofficial sources and might not be true.

apparently has

Conveys information based on appearances or indirect evidence.

allegedly has

Implies an accusation that has not been proven.

FAQs

How can I use "is understood to have" in a sentence?

Use "is understood to have" to indicate information believed to be true but not definitively proven. For example, "The company "is understood to have delayed" the product launch due to technical issues".

What phrases are similar to "is understood to have"?

Alternatives include "is believed to have", "is thought to have", and "is reported to have". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "is understood to have" versus "is known to have"?

"Is understood to have" implies a level of uncertainty or indirect knowledge, whereas "is known to have" suggests established fact. Use "is understood" when the information is inferred, not directly confirmed.

Is there a more formal alternative to "is understood to have"?

In formal contexts, consider using "it is posited that" or "it is suggested that" followed by a more direct statement. If the source is known, cite it directly to enhance credibility. For example, "According to the report, the company experienced losses".