show some understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "show some understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when the speaker wants to express a desire for the listener to demonstrate empathy, sympathy, or knowledge about a certain situation or subject. Example: "I understand that you may be upset, but please show some understanding towards your sibling's feelings as well."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Show some understanding.

The Guardian

The council should show some understanding.

The Guardian

The hysteria-bred tenderness gives the movie a chance to take a breath and show some understanding of its characters before Little Otik swallows them whole.

The New York Times

Obama "is going to have to show some understanding and sympathy about Michigan and the auto industry," said Bill Ballenger, editor of the Inside Michigan Politics newsletter.

The New York Times

Moreover, a full accounting would show some understanding that former presidents, in whatever neighborhood they choose to work, have a continuing responsibility to be role models rather than sources of disruption.

The New York Times

"It was, 'We want you out of here, we don't want you on this property again, you are not part of this community, we have nothing to say to you.' " Mrs. Marhoffer, a lawyer, who also acknowledged the gravity of Ross's actions, said she had pleaded with Mr. Heus to show some understanding.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Mr. Hu showed "some understanding" but did not made a clear commitment, it said.

The New York Times

He campaigned for Sanders and wants a hug from him, reassurance that things will be OK and an acknowledgment that the world has gone mad, appeals towards which the senator shows some understanding and also undisguised irritation.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Mr. Arafat had shown some understanding of this at the meeting last month with Mr. Clinton at Sharm el Sheik in Egypt, where the president also met with Mr. Barak to call a truce in the fighting.

The New York Times

The Tories, obviously, can hardly complain that Labour is basically mimicking their old policies, but health analysts and commentators have been remarkably sanguine, not wanting to criticise Labour for at last seeing the light, and showing some understanding of how the health service works in the real world.

The Guardian

Friends of the Elderly's Richard Furze said the experiment shows some understanding of the isolation felt by older people.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking someone to "show some understanding", be specific about what you want them to understand. Providing context can help them empathize and respond appropriately.

Common error

Avoid simply telling someone to "show some understanding" without providing any context or explanation of the situation. This can lead to misinterpretations and frustration, as they may not know what you expect them to understand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show some understanding" functions as an imperative request or suggestion, urging someone to display empathy, comprehension, or consideration. It is often used when the speaker believes the listener is not adequately appreciating a situation or another person's feelings. Ludwig's AI confirms that the phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "show some understanding" is a grammatically sound and generally well-regarded phrase that urges someone to empathize or comprehend a situation. According to Ludwig's AI, the phrase is both correct and usable in various written contexts. While relatively common, the phrase is most frequently found in news and media outlets. It's important to note that while its usage is acceptable, it's crucial to provide context when using this phrase to ensure clarity and prevent misunderstandings. Alternatives such as "express empathy" or "demonstrate comprehension" can be considered depending on the desired tone and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

express empathy

Emphasizes the emotional aspect of understanding another's feelings.

acknowledge the perspective

Emphasizes recognizing and considering another's point of view.

demonstrate comprehension

Focuses on displaying clear comprehension rather than just understanding.

adopt a sympathetic stance

Indicates taking a supportive and understanding position.

display compassion

Highlights a caring and considerate attitude toward others.

grant consideration

Suggests giving careful thought or attention to something.

offer support

Indicates providing assistance or encouragement based on understanding.

exercise tolerance

Stresses the act of accepting differing viewpoints or situations.

recognize the validity

Highlights acknowledging the legitimacy or worth of something.

appreciate the complexity

Focuses on acknowledging the multifaceted nature of a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "show some understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "show some understanding" when you want someone to be more empathetic or considerate of a situation. For example, "Please "show some understanding"; this is a difficult time for everyone involved."

What's a more formal way to say "show some understanding"?

In a more formal setting, consider using phrases like "demonstrate comprehension" or "exercise tolerance" to convey a similar meaning. These alternatives maintain a professional tone while still encouraging empathy.

What can I say instead of "show some understanding" when asking for patience?

When seeking patience, you could say "grant consideration" or "adopt a sympathetic stance" to encourage understanding and leniency.

Is it ever inappropriate to ask someone to "show some understanding"?

It might be inappropriate to ask someone to "show some understanding" if they lack the necessary information or context to do so. Ensure they have enough details before expecting them to empathize.