reasonable understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reasonable understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a level of comprehension that is fair or justifiable in a given context. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, I believe we have a reasonable understanding of the situation at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

And while some went into marriage with a reasonable understanding of sex, others did not.

The New Yorker

It is both elegant and sensual, and the architects seem to have a reasonable understanding of the patterns of normal life.

The New Yorker

With that decision, the court "contravened settled principles governing the deference due to an administrative agency's reasonable understanding of its own decisions", according to the DOJ writ.

The Guardian

About 1 million people claimed to have used signing to watch television but further research revealed that only about 66,000 had a reasonable understanding of sign language.

The Guardian

Rehabilitation is about reintegration into society, with the fundamental basis of this a reasonable understanding that the individual will not reoffend.

Independent

Inside the factory, the time-consuming work was as challenging as a skilled trades position in a car plant, demanding precision, attention to detail and a reasonable understanding of helicopter mechanics.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

These results could be references for seismic design of tunnel portal section in mountain tunnels and have positive effects on reasonable understandings of the seismic response characteristics in this section.

Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology

It seems that failures of propriety conspire against any reasonable epistemological understanding of probability of the type commonly used in various branches of mathematical economics, philosophy and computer science.

SEP

There is no need for a background consensus based on cultural homogeneity to act as a 'catalyzing condition' for democracy to the extent that the democratic political process, involving public deliberation and decision-making, makes "a reasonable political understanding possible, even among strangers".

SEP

This has been done through identifying the maximum flow between the candidate proteins P and disease genes G. Maximizing the flow from the candidate proteins to the resistance genes seems to be reasonable since understanding the efficient communications in the biological networks can be helpful to design treatment mechanisms for the problem of resistance in a systematic and rational way.

Clinical and Translational Medicine

"I always found him to be reasonable and understanding of the problems that people have," said Dawson, who has not endorsed a candidate in the race.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for "reasonable understanding", ensure you have covered the core concepts and addressed potential counterarguments. Acknowledge limitations to show a balanced perspective.

Common error

Do not overestimate what "reasonable understanding" entails. It suggests a solid grasp of the basics but not necessarily expertise. Clearly define the scope of understanding you expect or possess.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reasonable understanding" functions as a noun phrase, where "reasonable" is an adjective modifying the noun "understanding". It describes the quality or extent of comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a valid and commonly used expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

46%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "reasonable understanding" is a grammatically correct and very common expression that signifies an adequate level of comprehension. As noted by Ludwig AI, its usage spans across various contexts, including news, science, and formal communication. While not implying complete mastery, it suggests a solid grasp of fundamental concepts. When using this phrase, avoid overstating the level of comprehension and clearly define the scope of understanding. Alternatives such as "moderate understanding" or "adequate understanding" can be used to express similar ideas. The consistent application and clear definition of what constitutes a "reasonable understanding" contribute to its effective and credible use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moderate understanding

Indicates a level of understanding that is neither high nor low, suggesting a middle ground in comprehension.

proper understanding

Emphasizes that the understanding is correct and in accordance with established standards or norms.

logical understanding

Highlights the rationality and coherence of the understanding, emphasizing a clear and sensible grasp of the subject.

adequate understanding

Suggests the understanding is sufficient or satisfactory for a particular purpose or need.

appropriate understanding

Indicates the understanding is fitting or suitable for the context or situation.

legitimate understanding

Highlights that the understanding is valid and justifiable, based on sound reasoning or evidence.

acceptable understanding

Suggests the understanding meets the minimum requirements or standards for acceptance.

decent understanding

Indicates a reasonably good or satisfactory level of comprehension.

rational understanding

Similar to logical, emphasizing a clear and reasoned grasp of the subject matter.

plausible understanding

Indicates the understanding is believable and likely to be true or accurate.

FAQs

How can I demonstrate a "reasonable understanding" of a complex topic?

To show a "reasonable understanding", focus on explaining the core principles clearly and concisely, using examples and analogies to aid comprehension. Acknowledge any limitations or uncertainties in your understanding.

What's the difference between "reasonable understanding" and "complete understanding"?

"Reasonable understanding" implies a satisfactory grasp of the main points, while "complete understanding" suggests a thorough and exhaustive knowledge of every detail. Strive for reasonable unless the context demands completeness.

What are some phrases similar to "reasonable understanding"?

You can use alternatives like "moderate understanding", "adequate understanding", or "decent understanding" depending on the context. These all suggest a satisfactory level of comprehension without implying complete mastery.

When is it appropriate to claim a "reasonable understanding" of something?

It's appropriate when you have a solid grasp of the fundamentals, can explain the key concepts, and are aware of the main issues and debates. Be honest about the limits of your knowledge to maintain credibility.