really understand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "really understand" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize a deep or thorough comprehension of a subject or situation. Example: "After studying the material for weeks, I finally feel like I really understand the concepts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I didn't really understand.

The Economist

How could he really understand?

The New Yorker

I don't really understand it.

The New York Times

"You can really understand them.

The New York Times

I don't really understand why".

The New York Times - Magazine

I don't really understand anymore.

The Guardian - Sport

"We don't really understand it".

The New York Times

"I didn't really understand it.

The New York Times

I couldn't really understand that".

The Guardian - Sport

I don't really understand technology.

The New Yorker

I couldn't really understand why.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "really understand" with specific examples or explanations to show the depth of understanding you are conveying. For example: "I really understand the impact of climate change, having seen its effects firsthand."

Common error

Avoid using "really understand" excessively, as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your vocabulary with synonyms like "fully grasp" or "deeply comprehend" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "really understand" functions as a verb phrase used to express a strong or complete comprehension of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it emphasizes a depth of understanding beyond a superficial level. It indicates that the speaker or writer has a firm grasp of the subject matter.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "really understand" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a deep and thorough comprehension of a subject, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it signals a level of understanding that goes beyond superficial knowledge. While versatile, varying your vocabulary with synonyms like "fully grasp" or "deeply comprehend" can enhance your writing. Remember that "really understand" is suitable for various contexts, but overuse can lead to redundancy. Using synonyms can improve the depth and readability of your content. The examples provided by Ludwig showcase a variety of applications in real-world writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fully grasp

Emphasizes complete comprehension and mental hold of a concept.

deeply comprehend

Highlights a thorough and profound level of understanding.

truly appreciate

Implies a sincere understanding and recognition of the value or significance.

completely fathom

Suggests the ability to fully explore and understand something complex.

genuinely perceive

Focuses on an authentic and accurate awareness or insight.

thoroughly digest

Highlights a process of careful consideration leading to complete understanding.

intuitively know

Emphasizes understanding based on instinct or inherent knowledge.

appreciate the nuances

Focuses on recognizing and understanding subtle details.

possess a keen awareness

Suggests an acute and informed understanding.

recognize the implications

Highlights understanding the consequences or effects of something.

FAQs

What does "really understand" mean?

The phrase "really understand" is used to emphasize a deep or thorough comprehension of a subject, situation, or concept. It goes beyond surface-level knowledge and suggests a complete grasp of the matter.

What can I say instead of "really understand"?

You can use alternatives like "fully grasp", "deeply comprehend", or "truly appreciate" depending on the context.

How can I use "really understand" in a sentence?

You can use "really understand" to show a full comprehension of a specific topic. For example: "After reading the book, I feel I "really understand" the author's message."

What is the difference between "understand" and "really understand"?

The addition of "really" to "understand" intensifies the meaning, emphasizing a deeper and more complete level of comprehension than simply "understand" alone. It suggests a more thorough and profound grasp.