presently understood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "presently understood" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is currently comprehended or accepted in the present time. Example: "The concept of renewable energy is presently understood as essential for sustainable development."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Computerized technology promises to assist in deciphering other languages not presently understood.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The presence of water on Mars is considered a critical issue because life as it is presently understood cannot exist without water.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Davisian erosion cycle theory is hurt by three factors in particular: (1) the presently understood need for continuous isostatic uplift during erosion, (2) the climatic variability displayed by most lands, and (3) the hydraulic behaviour of rivers noted by Gilbert that precludes valley alluviation under normal humid conditions and limits base-level influences over interior slopes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These rate-controlling processes are not presently understood.

Acta Materialia

Although this phenomenon is not presently understood, it is likely that the strains assimilate lignocellulose degradation products supplied by themselves or another microorganism.

AMB Express

It is presently understood that the strength of the concrete substrate is a key factor affecting the debonding failure mode and the overall bond strength of FRP materials.

Composites Part B: Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

In a classic paper, "Moral Issues in Human Genetics", Ruth Macklin (1977) points out that homogenizing or otherwise manipulating the gene pool may have dangerous effects that we do not presently understand and can't foresee.

SEP

"Antimodernism," as Zavarzadeh termed it -- foreshadowing Damiani's use of the Hegelian term "antithesis" -- is postmodernism as we presently understand it.

Huffington Post

Although we presently understand little of the dynamic assembly of the acto-myosin network in non-muscle cells, coordination between myosin II assembly and F-actin assembly is envisaged.

Plosone

Thus we do not presently understand the functional relevance and consequences of ALK signalling in ALK-positive IMT.

Biochemical Journal

With that in mind, we do not presently understand why RECQL5-driven genomic losses overlap much better than genomic gains with CFSs and genes.

Cell

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "presently understood" when you want to emphasize that the understanding of a concept is current and may evolve with new information. For example, "The mechanism of action is presently understood to involve X, but further research is ongoing."

Common error

Avoid using "presently understood" when describing fundamental principles that are unlikely to change. It's better suited for areas where knowledge is actively developing and subject to revision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "presently understood" functions as an adverbial modifier describing the state of comprehension. It indicates the current or existing understanding of a particular subject. Ludwig's examples showcase its role in qualifying statements about scientific processes and historical perspectives.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

70%

Encyclopedias

20%

News & Media

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "presently understood" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that signifies the current state of comprehension about a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage, particularly within scientific and academic contexts. While it's important to use this phrase appropriately—avoiding assumptions of permanence—it serves as a valuable tool for expressing nuanced understanding. Alternatives like "currently understood" or "now understood" may offer similar meanings. It's typically found in formal and scientific registers, reflecting its prevalence in scholarly discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

currently understood

Replaces "presently" with "currently", emphasizing the existing understanding at this time.

now understood

Substitutes "presently" with "now", highlighting the understanding at the present moment.

as it is understood today

Adds specificity by stating that the understanding is relevant to the current day.

as we know it now

Emphasizes the collective understanding and current knowledge.

currently recognized

Focuses on the acknowledgement or acceptance of a concept.

as things stand

Introduces a sense of the current state or situation regarding understanding.

in the current state of knowledge

Highlights the context of understanding within the overall body of knowledge.

given our current understanding

Frames the statement based on the limitations of current knowledge.

in light of current knowledge

Similar to "given our current understanding", emphasizing the influence of knowledge.

as far as we can tell

Indicates the understanding is based on available evidence and may be incomplete.

FAQs

How can I use "presently understood" in a sentence?

You can use "presently understood" to indicate the current comprehension of a topic, as in, "The causes of the disease are "presently understood" to be multifactorial."

What are some alternatives to using "presently understood"?

Alternatives include "currently understood", "now understood", or "as it is understood today", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "currently understood" or "presently understood"?

Both "currently understood" and ""presently understood"" are acceptable, but "currently" might be slightly more common in contemporary usage. The choice often depends on personal preference and stylistic context.

What is the difference between "previously understood" and "presently understood"?

"Previously understood" refers to a past understanding, while ""presently understood"" refers to the current or existing understanding. They highlight a change in knowledge or perspective over time.