obtaining an understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obtaining an understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of gaining knowledge or insight about a particular subject or concept. Example: "The first step in the research process involves obtaining an understanding of the existing literature on the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Obtaining an understanding of the microfoundations of how this occurs is the ultimate pursuit.

The Economist

The current study aims at obtaining an understanding of the sensitivity of TMA analysis to the physical, chemical and morphological properties of coal combustion deposits.

Fuel Processing Technology

This makes possible the use of the simulation results for obtaining an understanding of the origin of the free energy difference which was not available from the experimental results.

Journal of Molecular Biology

Emphasis is placed on obtaining an understanding of the real system and adequate transfer of the physical processes into the form of the equivalent circuit for the extraction of reliable conductivity data.

Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry

NA interviewed TPM, a stroke physician and researcher, extensively for obtaining an understanding of the European guidelines for acute stroke management.

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

Only a more refined knowledge of syringeal geometry will permit obtaining an understanding of syringeal biomechanics and mechanical loads experienced in vivo.

BMC Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

He also reported that, while in the company of scientists he would expect them to have a reasonable knowledge of, say, the works of Shakespeare, in the company of those from the humanities he would hardly ever obtain an understanding of the laws of thermodynamics.

The Guardian

The case company was examined in order to obtain an understanding of the company's operations.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

Thermal gravimetric analysis and dry state conductivity measurements have been used to obtain an understanding of the results observed.

Polymer

One of the examples where there is an urgency to obtain an understanding is producing high quality low salt products.

Procedia Food Science

Converting biological discoveries into commercial-scale processes requires that graduating chemical engineers obtain an understanding of modern bioprocess principles.

Education for Chemical Engineers

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For more concise writing, consider using synonyms like "gaining insight" or "achieving comprehension" instead of "obtaining an understanding".

Common error

Avoid using "obtaining an understanding" excessively in formal writing. Overuse of nominalizations can make your writing sound verbose and less engaging. Opt for stronger verbs when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obtaining an understanding" functions as a gerund phrase. As supported by Ludwig, it acts as a noun, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the action or process of gaining knowledge or comprehension.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "obtaining an understanding" is a grammatically correct gerund phrase used to describe the process of gaining knowledge or comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While commonly found in science, news, and formal business contexts, it's important to consider more concise alternatives like "gaining insight" or "achieving comprehension" for improved clarity. Overusing this phrase can lead to wordiness. The phrase is generally neutral to formal and is suitable for academic and professional writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaining insight

Focuses on the result of the process, which is the acquisition of a deep, intuitive grasp of something.

developing comprehension

Emphasizes a gradual process of building a complete and thorough understanding.

acquiring knowledge

Highlights the act of getting knowledge about a particular subject.

achieving comprehension

Suggests reaching a state of complete understanding.

forming a judgment

Implies reaching a conclusion based on understanding evidence or information.

grasping the meaning

Focuses on understanding the underlying significance or intention.

getting the hang of

An informal phrase for acquiring basic competence in something.

figuring out

Implies solving a problem or discovering a hidden truth.

deciphering

Suggests carefully interpreting something complex or obscure.

unraveling

Emphasizes a process of disentangling or clarifying a complex situation.

FAQs

How can I use "obtaining an understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "obtaining an understanding" to describe the process of gaining knowledge or insight about a particular subject, as in "The first step in the research process involves obtaining an understanding of the existing literature."

What are some alternatives to "obtaining an understanding"?

You can use alternatives such as "gaining insight", "developing comprehension", or "acquiring knowledge" depending on the context.

Is "obtaining an understanding" formal or informal?

"Obtaining an understanding" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase. In some contexts, it can be replaced with simpler or more direct language for improved clarity and conciseness.

What is the difference between "obtaining an understanding" and "having an understanding"?

"Obtaining an understanding" refers to the process of acquiring knowledge, while "having an understanding" refers to the state of possessing knowledge. For example, "obtaining an understanding" requires research, while "having an understanding" allows you to explain a concept.