please understand that

USAGE SUMMARY

"please understand that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize something, like this example: "Please understand that I cannot accommodate your request at this time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But he added, "Please understand that is speculative and a hypothesis".

The New York Times - Health

Please understand that journalism needed, needs your voice.

HuffPost

(Please understand that before this, our projects were always small and completed within a short period of time).

Huffington Post

Please understand that I am a victim.

The Guardian - Sport

Please understand that your blogs have not been deleted.

Independent

Please understand that none of this is science fiction.

The Guardian

As your employer, please understand that this letter carries no threat.

The New Yorker

Joe, please understand that your admission to T.C.U. is in jeopardy.

The New York Times

Please understand that the waiter is following the directions of the restaurateur or the manager.

The New York Times - Food

Please understand that I have a pre-existing condition: I'm Canadian.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

'Please understand that we were late only because your political boss held us late.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "please understand that" to clearly signal the importance of the information that follows. This phrase sets an expectation of comprehension and consideration from your audience.

Common error

Avoid starting too many sentences with "please understand that". Overusing this phrase can make your writing sound repetitive and condescending. Consider alternative ways to introduce important information or rephrase for better flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "please understand that" functions as a discourse marker or framing device. It introduces a statement that the speaker or writer wants the audience to fully comprehend and accept. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

24%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "please understand that" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the importance of the information that follows. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is grammatically sound and appropriate for a wide range of contexts, from news articles to academic papers. Although very common, it's best practice to use this phrase judiciously to maintain a natural and engaging writing style. Common alternatives include "please know that" and "please appreciate that". By understanding its function and register, you can effectively use "please understand that" to ensure your message is clearly and thoughtfully received.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

please know that

Replaces "understand" with "know", focusing on conveying information rather than requiring comprehension.

please appreciate that

Emphasizes the value or importance of the information being conveyed.

please realize that

Similar to "understand", but emphasizes the process of becoming aware of something.

bear in mind that

An idiomatic expression that means to remember or consider something.

keep in mind that

Similar to "bear in mind", focusing on retaining information for future consideration.

it's important to realize that

Highlights the significance of understanding the information.

it's crucial to understand that

Emphasizes the necessity of understanding the information.

it is essential to grasp that

Replaces "understand" with "grasp", suggesting a firm understanding is needed.

take note that

Directs attention to a specific piece of information.

consider that

Asks the audience to think about or take into account a particular fact or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "please understand that" in a sentence?

Use "please understand that" to introduce information you want the reader or listener to acknowledge and consider. For example, "Please understand that deadlines are firm and extensions cannot be granted."

What are some alternatives to "please understand that"?

You can use alternatives like "please know that", "please appreciate that", or "please realize that" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "please understand that" formal or informal?

"Please understand that" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it's more common in professional or semi-formal communication.

How can I avoid sounding condescending when using "please understand that"?

Ensure that your tone is respectful and that you are not using the phrase to dismiss or invalidate someone's feelings or perspective. Focus on providing necessary information or context rather than asserting superiority.