learn to understand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "learn to understand" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of gaining comprehension or insight into a subject or concept. Example: "In order to improve your communication skills, it is essential to learn to understand the perspectives of others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That I could learn to understand the Brooklyn transit system.

The New Yorker

One has to learn to understand and respect that.

The Guardian

Infants learn to understand pointing by 12 months.

The Guardian - Opinion

You, in turn, must learn to understand the mate's needs.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Children learn to understand new things through science," said Edi Kusyanto, principal of Petamburan 04.

The New York Times

We need to rebuild our social fabric and to learn to understand each other.

The Guardian

To live well, the modern individual must learn to understand himself in all his singularity.

The New York Times - Magazine

The newcomers, he says, will have to learn to understand the French.

The New York Times

They learn to understand their feelings and their experiences and to move out, beyond the event".

The New York Times - Magazine

He added: "We have to learn to understand each other and to accept diversity.

The New York Times - Arts

These people can learn to understand the relationship between their emotions and their behavior without drugs.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "learn to understand", consider the specific context and audience to ensure the level of formality is appropriate. For example, in academic writing, it might be better to use "develop a comprehensive understanding" instead.

Common error

Avoid using "learn to understand" when a simpler verb like "understand" or "comprehend" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "learn to understand" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing the purpose or goal of acquiring comprehension. As Ludwig AI points out, it describes the process of gaining knowledge or insight.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "learn to understand" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to express the process of gaining comprehension or insight. While appropriate for various contexts, including news, science, and general writing, consider using more formal alternatives like "develop a comprehensive understanding" in academic or professional settings. Be mindful of overusing the phrase in simple situations where shorter verbs would be more effective. Remember, the aim is to convey understanding clearly and concisely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

comprehend fully

Emphasizes complete understanding, highlighting the thoroughness of comprehension.

grasp the meaning

Focuses on capturing the essential significance rather than the learning process.

acquire insight

Highlights the gaining of a deeper understanding, suggesting a new perspective.

develop an appreciation

Suggests growing understanding combined with a positive evaluation or value.

begin to see

Suggests a gradual unfolding of understanding or realization.

come to terms with

Implies accepting and understanding something difficult or challenging.

fathom the depths

Emphasizes exploring and understanding something complex or profound.

decipher the nuances

Focuses on understanding the subtle details and complexities.

get the hang of

Informal way of saying to understand how to do something.

get a handle on

Suggests gaining control and understanding of a situation or concept.

FAQs

How can I use "learn to understand" in a sentence?

You can use "learn to understand" to describe the process of gaining comprehension or insight. For example: "It is important to "learn to understand" different cultures to foster better relationships".

What is a more formal alternative to "learn to understand"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "develop a comprehensive understanding", "acquire a thorough grasp", or "cultivate an in-depth knowledge".

Is there a difference between "learn to understand" and "learn to comprehend"?

While similar, "learn to understand" often implies a broader, more intuitive grasp, while "learn to comprehend" might suggest a more structured, analytical understanding.

What can I say instead of "learn to understand" in informal conversation?

In informal contexts, you might use phrases like "get the hang of", "figure out", or "catch on to" as alternatives to "learn to understand".