share an understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "share an understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing mutual comprehension or agreement between parties on a particular topic or issue. Example: "In order to move forward effectively, we need to share an understanding of the project's goals and objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

Athletes these days share an understanding.

The New Yorker

"We seem to share an understanding of the way forward".

The New York Times

As the Google example shows, all companies don't share an understanding on transparency.

The Guardian - Opinion

They know that everyone must share an understanding of which activities are critical to success.

Harvard Business Review

Nora senses that her children and sisters share an understanding that she lacks.

Independent

The people in Fortitude share an "understanding", Stoddart's wife tells Morton – and already we have seen evidence of bed-hopping.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

He and Crawford shared an understanding of how the world worked.

The New Yorker

When she then spoke with Stella, the two immediately shared an understanding and knew they had to work together.

Forbes

Many FQHC-based interviewees shared an understanding of current challenges facing FQHCs with respect to external electronic exchange of data.

BMC Health Services Research

In their view, the tutors shared an understanding of the complex decision-making involved in prescribing in general practice.

BMC Family Practice

Michelangelo and Tracey Emin share a spiritual understanding of love, it seems.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "share an understanding" to emphasize collaboration and alignment, particularly when coordinating complex projects or initiatives. This will promote effective teamwork.

Common error

Avoid assuming that others automatically "share an understanding" simply because you've communicated something. Always solicit feedback and confirm mutual comprehension to prevent misinterpretations and ensure everyone is on the same page.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "share an understanding" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a state of mutual comprehension or agreement. As supported by Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used to express that multiple parties have a similar grasp or interpretation of a particular subject.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

27%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "share an understanding" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that denotes a mutual comprehension or agreement between parties. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is applicable across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. While alternatives like "have a mutual understanding" or "reach a common understanding" exist, it's important to emphasize active communication and verify comprehension to avoid assumptions. The phrase serves to establish common ground, promote collaboration, and ensure effective communication in diverse settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a mutual understanding

Emphasizes the reciprocity and commonality of the understanding.

reach a common understanding

Focuses on the process of arriving at a shared understanding.

share a consensus

Highlights agreement on a particular matter, implying a shared understanding leading to that agreement.

see eye to eye

An idiomatic expression indicating complete agreement and shared understanding.

be on the same wavelength

Suggests an intuitive shared understanding without explicit communication.

have a meeting of minds

Implies a convergence of thoughts and understanding after discussion or deliberation.

share a viewpoint

Emphasizes a shared perspective or opinion, which is a component of broader understanding.

agree on a perception

Highlights the concurrence in how something is viewed or interpreted.

have identical awareness

Focuses on the same level of awareness and knowledge regarding a situation.

share a recognition

Focuses on recognizing and acknowledging something together.

FAQs

How can I use "share an understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "share an understanding" to describe a mutual comprehension between people. For instance, "The team members "share an understanding" of the project goals" or "The negotiators "share an understanding" of the key issues".

What are some alternatives to "share an understanding"?

Alternatives include "have a mutual understanding", "reach a common understanding", or "see eye to eye". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "share an understanding" or "have an understanding"?

"Share an understanding" implies a mutual comprehension, while "have an understanding" simply means someone possesses knowledge. Use "share" when emphasizing the commonality of the understanding.

What's the difference between "share an understanding" and "come to an understanding"?

"Share an understanding" describes a current state of mutual comprehension. "Come to an understanding" describes the process of reaching that comprehension. For example, "After a long discussion, they "came to an understanding" and now "share an understanding"".