the implicit understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the implicit understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an unspoken agreement or shared knowledge between individuals or groups. Example: "In our team, there is often an implicit understanding that everyone will contribute equally to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"When you say a job will be there in 12 months, the implicit understanding is it will be there if the business will support it," Mr. Miller said.

The New York Times

How could parents reconcile securing the absolute best for their child with the implicit understanding that it meant someone else's would lose out?

The Guardian - Opinion

The implicit understanding among legislators at the time, several sources said, was that the tax breaks would prevent other Boeing jobs from leaving the state.

The Washington Post

European elites created the euro as an incomplete structure, with the implicit understanding that its flaws would be corrected along the way.

The Washington Post

One contributor had great pictures of a breaking news event and gave them to the BBC under the implicit understanding that they would not find their way into the hands of Rupert Murdoch.

The Guardian

Every project that is awarded comes with a confidentiality agreement and the implicit understanding that if it is violated the perpetrator will need to consider a new line of work.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

However, it reaffirms the privileged role of the designer, positioning her as the vessel through which all the implicit understandings that make it into the final design must first pass.

Harvard Business Review

Hereinafter we use the acronym IAC with this implicit understanding.

Biology Direct

Perhaps the implicit reason is that an understanding of when it is appropriate to dissolve a love depends on a prior understanding of when it is appropriate to continue a love; nonetheless, it is not obvious that the two questions shouldn't be addressed together.

SEP

It is obvious from the terms "experience" and "seek" that the statute's implicit understanding of the ability to feel pain is that "feeling" refers not merely to what neuroscientists call the nociceptive capacity of an organism — the ability of its nervous system to detect and respond to potentially noxious stimuli — but to conscious awareness of the presence of such stimuli.

The New York Times

There is, on the left, an implicit understanding of political philosopher Toni Negri's claim: that the "factory" is now the whole of society, and the subject of change is everybody – especially the networked youth.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "the implicit understanding" with more direct language if clarity is paramount. While the phrase adds nuance, explicit statements often serve better in formal contexts.

Common error

Avoid assuming that everyone understands what is implied. While "the implicit understanding" suggests shared knowledge, verify that all parties actually possess that understanding. Stating the understanding explicitly can prevent misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the implicit understanding" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to an unspoken agreement or assumption that is understood by all parties involved, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the implicit understanding" is a common phrase used to denote an unspoken agreement or assumption shared among individuals. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and applicable in a variety of contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal business settings. While it streamlines communication, clarity is essential. Over-reliance on implicitness can lead to misunderstandings. Therefore, explicit statements are sometimes more effective, especially in critical situations. Alternatives such as "tacit agreement" or "unspoken assumption" can be used to vary the phrasing. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively use "the implicit understanding" to enhance their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the tacit agreement

Emphasizes the unspoken nature of the agreement more strongly.

the unwritten rule

Highlights the regulatory aspect of the understanding.

the unspoken assumption

Focuses on the presumed truth rather than the agreement.

the common knowledge

Suggests widespread awareness, not necessarily an agreement.

the shared belief

Implies a conviction held collectively.

the accepted norm

Highlights the conformity aspect of the understanding.

the prevailing wisdom

Suggests an understanding rooted in experience and tradition.

the general consensus

Implies a broader agreement reached through discussion or observation.

the mutual expectation

Focuses on what each party anticipates from the other.

the understood condition

Highlights that understanding is a fundamental requirement.

FAQs

How can "the implicit understanding" be used in a sentence?

You can use "the implicit understanding" to describe an unspoken agreement or assumption, as in: "There was "the implicit understanding" that everyone would contribute equally."

What are some alternatives to "the implicit understanding"?

Alternatives include "tacit agreement", "unspoken assumption", or "unwritten rule", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to state something explicitly rather than rely on "the implicit understanding"?

While "the implicit understanding" can add nuance, explicit statements are often clearer, especially in formal or critical situations. It depends on the context and your audience.

What's the difference between "the implicit understanding" and "common knowledge"?

"The implicit understanding" suggests an agreement or assumption among specific individuals, while "common knowledge" refers to information widely known by the general public.