it is usually understood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is usually understood" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating a common interpretation or assumption that is generally accepted by people in a particular context. Example: "In academic discussions, it is usually understood that all participants have read the assigned materials before the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

In Japan, however, it is usually understood as beginning in the Edo period (17th century).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Arabs and other peoples are also Semites, and yet they are not the targets of anti-Semitism as it is usually understood.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is partly because as it is usually understood, these are the "good" claims that consequentialists hold to have a bearing on what we ought to do.

SEP

That is, it serves as a way of opening up or looking at the political world as it is usually understood and uncovering ways in which women and their current and historical concerns are poorly depicted, represented, and addressed.

SEP

But the point that I am trying to make is that Pakistan is not the "barbaric" other that it is usually understood as, compared to India the "tolerant" one.

Huffington Post

Thus it is important to distinguish the term inattention, as it is usually understood, from impulsive (cognitive) processing that risks non-adaptive responses.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

(For the most part, these companies deal not with felony probationers — "probation" as it's usually understood — but with people whose offenses are often too minor to merit jail time).

The New Yorker

Instrumental rationality, as it's usually understood, is a requirement of coherence governing one's intentions and beliefs a requirement that is in place regardless of the truth of those beliefs.

SEP

It's usually understood as picturing Christ's asking admission into our hearts.

Huffington Post

When I first read this quote and when I share it with my yoga students; it's usually understood that she is talking about the importance of leaving relationships where you are being disrespected.

Huffington Post

It's usually understood that the conversation will be private, but it helps to hear that it will go no further.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is usually understood", ensure the context clarifies who holds this understanding (e.g., within a specific field or community).

Common error

Avoid using "it is usually understood" when the understanding is limited to a small group or specific context. Be precise about who shares this understanding to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is usually understood" functions as a hedge or qualifier, indicating that a particular interpretation or understanding is common but not necessarily universal or absolute. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is often used to introduce a widely accepted perspective.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

26%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is usually understood" serves as a useful linguistic tool to introduce common interpretations or understandings, particularly in academic, scientific, and news contexts. While the phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable, as Ludwig AI confirms, it is essential to ensure that the stated understanding is, in fact, generally accepted within the relevant context and to avoid overgeneralizations. Consider alternatives like "it is generally understood" or "it is commonly accepted" to fine-tune the nuance. The phrase's neutral register makes it versatile, but always prioritize clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is generally understood

Replaces 'usually' with 'generally', indicating a slightly broader consensus.

it is typically interpreted

Similar to 'usually', but emphasizes the typical manner of interpretation.

it is commonly accepted

Focuses on the acceptance of an idea rather than just understanding.

the common understanding is

Rephrases the sentence structure to emphasize the 'common understanding'.

it is widely recognized

Highlights the widespread recognition of a concept.

the prevalent view is

Highlights the prevalence of a particular viewpoint.

it is conventionally interpreted

Emphasizes the conventional nature of the interpretation.

it is normally considered

Focuses on the typical consideration or viewpoint.

it is almost always understood

Emphasizes the high frequency of this particular understanding

it is largely believed

Shifts the focus to belief rather than understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "it is usually understood" in a sentence?

You can use "it is usually understood" to introduce a common interpretation of a concept. For example, "In the context of this theory, "it is usually understood" that...".

What phrases are similar to "it is usually understood"?

Similar phrases include "it is generally understood", "it is commonly accepted", and "it is widely recognized". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it is usually understood" formal or informal?

"It is usually understood" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its formality depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the writing.

When should I avoid using "it is usually understood"?

Avoid using "it is usually understood" if the understanding is not widespread or if there's a significant debate about the interpretation. In such cases, be more specific about the source or group that holds the understanding.