rudimentary comprehension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rudimentary comprehension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a basic or fundamental understanding of a subject or concept. Example: "While he has only a rudimentary comprehension of the topic, he is eager to learn more."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

This time our tour leader spoke only Spanish, and although our comprehension was rudimentary, we made out most of what he explained.

The New York Times - Travel

While he can speak rudimentary English — he rates his comprehension at 30 percent — he conducts nearly his entire life in Chinese.

The New York Times

Such comprehension, the aim of voice-activated virtual assistants — e.g. Siri, Now, Cortana, Echo, M — starts with the rudimentary routing of queries to third-party databases.

TechCrunch

Such comprehension, the aim of voice-activated virtual assistants — e.g. Siri, Now, Cortana, Echo, M — starts with the rudimentary routing of queries to third-party databases.

TechCrunch

Reading comprehension.

The New Yorker

Trials are often rudimentary.

The New York Times

These now seem rudimentary.

The Economist

The furniture is very rudimentary.

Encyclopedia Britannica

My comprehension improves sporadically.

The New Yorker

Corporate governance is rudimentary.

The Economist

No comprehension (Bucharest).

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using alternatives like "basic understanding" or "elementary grasp" if "rudimentary comprehension" feels too formal or uncommon for your writing context.

Common error

Avoid using "rudimentary comprehension" when you mean complete lack of understanding. "Rudimentary" implies some level of basic knowledge, not a total absence of it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rudimentary comprehension" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "rudimentary" modifies the noun "comprehension". The phrase describes a basic or initial level of understanding. Based on Ludwig's examples, it shows up in writing when detailing skill levels or processes that are not very advanced.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rudimentary comprehension" describes a basic or initial level of understanding, often implying that further learning is needed. Though grammatically correct and usable, it's not as common as alternatives like "basic understanding". Its formality is generally neutral. Ludwig AI confirms its use in contexts involving initial skill levels or undeveloped processes. To enhance clarity, consider whether simpler terms like "basic understanding" might be more suitable, or if you wish to emphasize the need for further development. Remember, while "rudimentary comprehension" indicates a foundation, it doesn't imply a complete lack of knowledge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

basic understanding

Focuses on the foundational aspect of understanding, omitting the nuance of simplicity.

elementary grasp

Replaces "comprehension" with "grasp", emphasizing the act of seizing understanding in a simple way.

primary level of understanding

Specifies "level of understanding" rather than directly using comprehension.

foundational knowledge

Highlights the role of knowledge as a base for further learning, removing the 'understanding' aspect.

limited awareness

Shifts the focus to the extent of awareness, implying a constrained comprehension.

superficial insight

Implies a shallow level of understanding, contrasting with deep or thorough comprehension.

initial acquaintance

Emphasizes the beginning stage of becoming familiar with something, rather than the act of understanding itself.

initial level of awareness

It is related to the level of knowledge someone has about something

preliminary notion

Indicates a tentative or early idea about something, suggesting further learning is needed.

simple literacy

Focuses on a basic ability to read and write, rather than a general understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "rudimentary comprehension" in a sentence?

"Rudimentary comprehension" can be used to describe a basic level of understanding. For example, "He has a "rudimentary comprehension" of the subject, but needs more in-depth knowledge."

What are some alternatives to "rudimentary comprehension"?

You can use alternatives like "basic understanding", "elementary grasp", or "foundational knowledge" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey. Each alternative emphasizes a slightly different aspect of basic understanding.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "rudimentary comprehension"?

It is appropriate when you want to indicate that someone has a basic but incomplete understanding of a topic. This suggests they are not entirely ignorant, but their knowledge is limited and needs further development.

Is "rudimentary comprehension" a formal or informal phrase?

It leans toward being a more formal phrase, suitable for academic or professional writing. In more casual contexts, "basic understanding" might be a better choice.