that's understandable

USAGE SUMMARY

"that's understandable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are sympathizing with someone for a certain situation. For example, "I'm sorry you had to leave your job. That's understandable given the circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

In some ways that's understandable on his opening night.

The New York Times

"And that's understandable.

The New York Times

"I think that's understandable".

The New York Times

That's understandable, perhaps.

The New York Times - Food

That's understandable, though harsh.

The New York Times

Perhaps that's understandable.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

In a way, that is understandable.

The Economist

In one sense that is understandable.

The Guardian - Sport

After a long night, that was understandable.

The New Yorker

Given the enormity of those crimes, that is understandable.

The New York Times

At first, given the provocations by Hamas, that was understandable.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that's understandable" to express empathy and validate someone's feelings or actions in a given context. It's particularly useful when acknowledging difficult circumstances or expected outcomes.

Common error

While "that's understandable" is a useful phrase, avoid overusing it in your writing or conversation. Vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing to maintain engagement and prevent sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that's understandable" primarily functions as an interjection or a short declarative statement expressing empathy, agreement, or acceptance. Ludwig's examples show it used to validate someone's feelings or actions given a specific context or circumstance. The Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that's understandable" is a versatile phrase used to express empathy and acceptance. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and appropriate for various situations. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, this phrase serves to validate someone's feelings or actions, especially in challenging circumstances. While very common, consider using alternatives to avoid repetition. Remember that this phrase signals your understanding of the situation, emphasizing reassurance and comprehension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that's reasonable

This alternative focuses on the logical aspect of the situation, highlighting why the action or feeling is justified.

that's justifiable

This alternative emphasizes the moral or ethical reasons behind the situation, suggesting it's not only understandable but also right.

that makes sense

This alternative highlights the logical coherence of the situation, suggesting a clear and rational explanation.

it's not surprising

This alternative indicates that the situation was somewhat expected, reducing the element of shock or disbelief.

that's to be expected

This suggests the situation is a normal or typical occurrence, highlighting its predictability.

that's forgivable

This alternative focuses on the excusable nature of an action or mistake, highlighting its lack of serious consequences.

that's acceptable

This alternative indicates that the situation meets a certain standard of approval, suggesting it's within acceptable bounds.

that figures

This alternative expresses a sense of resignation or acceptance, often used when something negative but predictable occurs.

I can see that

This indicates understanding of the situation.

I understand

It is a more direct phrase to show the speaker's understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "that's understandable" in a sentence?

Use "that's understandable" to show empathy or acceptance of a situation. For example, "I know you're feeling stressed. "That's understandable" with all the deadlines coming up."

What are some alternatives to "that's understandable"?

You can use alternatives like "that's reasonable", "that makes sense", or "it's not surprising" depending on the context.

Is it ever incorrect to use "that's understandable"?

While grammatically correct, using "that's understandable" might be inappropriate if you genuinely don't understand or sympathize with the situation. Ensure your usage aligns with your true feelings to avoid insincerity.

What's the difference between "that's understandable" and "I understand"?

""That's understandable"" acknowledges the reason behind someone's feelings or actions, while "I understand" simply indicates you comprehend their perspective. The former conveys more empathy.