reach a common understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'reach a common understanding' is correct and it is commonly used in written English.
You can use it to describe when people work together to come to an agreement on a particular issue. For example: The two sides worked hard to reach a common understanding about the proposed plan.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"President Obama and I are trying to reach a common understanding on this," Netanyahu said.

The Guardian

"We still believe the family can come together to reach a common understanding of their father's last wishes," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Edison typically works closely with local boards to reach a common understanding about the goals for the schools we operate.

The New York Times

"We have worked collaboratively to reach a common understanding regarding the order that will resolve our short-term issues," he said.

The New York Times

We would say, 'That's another one for the screenplay.' " With Graham, Egan often had the uncanny feeling "that you can't use language to reach a common understanding.

The New Yorker

But since the group finds it urgent to reach a common understanding, pressure toward acceptance of a favoured version grows as the rumour process expands.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

President Obama, in his joint news conference with Mr. Xi at the White House last week, announced that "our two countries have reached a common understanding" on cyberattacks.

The Washington Post

This will help in both reaching a common understanding platform for all those involved in the energy problem and pave the way to identify the needs and thus suggesting and assessing solutions.

Procedia Computer Science

"Perhaps at this point in time this is worth saying more than anything else: we are prepared to fight if what is at stake is whether we try to re solve issues in the world by talking to people, by negotiating, by reaching a common understanding, or whether we let the extremists, the terrorists, the fanatics determine our fate," he said.

The Guardian

I kept trying to tell her I was a reporter and I think we finally reached a common understanding of one another but not before I'd talked her down to $18.60 per unit for only 500 of them.

TechCrunch

His Polish counterpart, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, responded by promising to open a dialogue in the hope of reaching a common understanding, but went on to pass the law before consultation could take place.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "reach a common understanding" in situations where mutual agreement and shared interpretation are essential for collaboration or conflict resolution. For example, in project management or international diplomacy.

Common error

Avoid using "reach a common understanding" when parties involved have irreconcilable differences and are unwilling to compromise. In such cases, aiming for a mere acknowledgement of differing viewpoints might be more realistic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reach a common understanding" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the process of achieving mutual agreement or shared comprehension between two or more parties. This usage aligns with examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reach a common understanding" is a frequently used verb phrase indicating the successful achievement of mutual agreement and shared comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, and its usage spans diverse contexts including news, science, and formal business. While its register is typically neutral, it can be applied across a range of situations requiring collaboration and alignment of perspectives. When using the phrase, it's crucial to consider the context and ensure a genuine willingness among parties to compromise and consider diverse viewpoints. Alternative phrasing may be more appropriate when dealing with scenarios where irreconcilable differences persist. Remember, effective communication and a collaborative spirit are paramount in successfully achieving a common understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attain a mutual agreement

Focuses on the achievement of mutual consent through a process, rather than a complete understanding.

achieve a consensus view

Emphasizes the agreement of opinions, where it is about getting to a shared view.

develop a shared perspective

Focuses on creating a shared viewpoint or outlook.

foster mutual comprehension

Highlights the act of promoting understanding between parties, rather than the result itself.

find common ground

Refers to discovering areas of agreement despite differences, often in a negotiation.

build a common vision

Emphasizes constructing a shared future outlook or objective.

establish a joint resolution

Focuses on creating a shared solution or decision.

cultivate harmonious relations

Highlights the development of peaceful and cooperative interactions.

forge a unified approach

Emphasizes the creation of a single, cohesive method or strategy.

promote collaborative insights

Focuses on encouraging shared discoveries and understandings through cooperation.

FAQs

What does "reach a common understanding" mean?

To "reach a common understanding" means that two or more parties have successfully communicated and now share a mutual comprehension and agreement on a particular issue, idea, or situation. It implies a shared interpretation and acceptance of the relevant facts and perspectives.

How can I use "reach a common understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "reach a common understanding" in sentences like: "After the negotiation, the parties were able to "reach a common understanding".", or "The goal of the meeting is to "reach a common understanding" regarding the new policy."

What are some alternatives to "reach a common understanding"?

Some alternatives to "reach a common understanding" include "achieve a consensus view", "attain a mutual agreement", or "develop a shared perspective". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always possible to "reach a common understanding"?

No, it's not always possible to "reach a common understanding". It requires a willingness to communicate, compromise, and consider different perspectives. In some situations, fundamental disagreements or unwillingness to cooperate may prevent a common understanding from being achieved.