our understanding is incomplete

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "our understanding is incomplete" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when acknowledging that there are gaps or limitations in knowledge or comprehension about a particular subject. Example: "After reviewing the data, we must conclude that our understanding is incomplete, and further research is necessary."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

While discussions around self-publishing so often concentrate on the mouth-watering sales of the headliners, it's important to bear in mind that our understanding is incomplete.

The Guardian - Books

It will also highlight areas in which our understanding is incomplete and finally will describe the major areas of clinical research, which will report over the next few years.

British Journal of Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Bishop and Anderson (1990), Demastes-Southerland, Settlage, and Good (1995), Lord and Marino (1993), and Sinatra et al. (2003) have found similar results, each concluding that the interface between belief and understanding is incomplete, and one may understand regardless of belief.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

This scientific understanding is incomplete, and there remain significant uncertainties about the precise magnitudes, timing, and dangers of climate change.

The Guardian

It provides a real-life example of adaptive learning in an environment where understanding is incomplete, but where management nonetheless has to proceed.

Journal of Environmental Management

The understanding of the nature and causes of depression has evolved over the centuries, though this understanding is incomplete and has left many aspects of depression as the subject of discussion and research.

Wikipedia

The understanding of the nature and causes of depression has evolved over the centuries, although this understanding is incomplete and has left many aspects of depression as the subject of discussion and research.

BMC Psychiatry

Although many families acknowledged receiving cholera messages, their understanding was incomplete.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

While Mediterranean vertebrate species are better known than the invertebrates, our understanding is still incomplete and often outdated.

Plosone

While our understanding is considerable it is incomplete and emerging areas of research such as those related to the immune-metabolic axis are only beginning to be appreciated.

The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Efficacy of prescribed fire for western juniper control depends on many factors for which our understanding is still quite incomplete.

Rangeland Ecology & Management

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "our understanding is incomplete", follow it with a clear indication of what specific areas require further investigation or clarification. This provides context and directs future inquiry.

Common error

Avoid using "our understanding is incomplete" when you possess a significant amount of knowledge on a topic. Instead, specify the particular aspects that require refinement or further study.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "our understanding is incomplete" serves as a statement acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge or comprehension regarding a specific subject. It indicates that while some understanding exists, there are gaps or areas needing further exploration. Ludwig AI confirms that it's correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

63%

News & Media

28%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "our understanding is incomplete" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to acknowledge the limitations of current knowledge. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for formal and scientific contexts, where it serves to convey intellectual honesty and set the stage for further inquiry. While alternatives like "our knowledge is partial" or "we lack complete insight" exist, "our understanding is incomplete" remains a clear and effective way to express the need for further research and clarification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

our knowledge is partial

Emphasizes the limited scope of our current knowledge on the subject.

we lack complete insight

Highlights the absence of a thorough understanding or perspective.

our grasp is imperfect

Focuses on the flawed or deficient nature of our comprehension.

our comprehension is limited

Indicates restrictions or boundaries in our ability to fully understand.

we don't fully comprehend

A more direct way of stating a lack of complete understanding.

our awareness is lacking

Suggests a deficiency in our recognition or consciousness of certain aspects.

the picture is not yet clear

Implies that the situation is still developing and not fully understood.

we only have a rudimentary understanding

Highlights that our understanding is basic and underdeveloped.

our view is still evolving

Suggests that our understanding is in the process of changing and improving.

our perspective is narrow

Focuses on the limited viewpoint affecting our overall understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "our understanding is incomplete" in a sentence?

You can use "our understanding is incomplete" to acknowledge the limitations of current knowledge. For example: "While we've made progress, "our understanding is incomplete" regarding the long-term effects of this treatment."

What are some alternatives to "our understanding is incomplete"?

Some alternatives include "our knowledge is partial", "we lack complete insight", or "our grasp is imperfect". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "our understanding is incomplete" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate. This phrase is suitable for formal writing, especially in academic or scientific contexts, where acknowledging the limits of current knowledge is crucial. However, ensure that you clearly state what aspects are incomplete.

What is the difference between saying "our understanding is incomplete" and "we know nothing"?

"Our understanding is incomplete" suggests that we have some knowledge but acknowledge gaps or areas needing further exploration. "We know nothing" implies a complete lack of knowledge, which is rarely the case. The former is more nuanced and typically more accurate.