the understanding that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the understanding that' is a perfectly valid phrase to use in written English.
It is used to introduce a statement of understanding or agreement, usually between two or more parties. For example, "We have come to the understanding that our agreement is no longer viable".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Personally, I write the understanding that I'm trying to share.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We have in common the understanding that we contain multitudes.

The New Yorker

It's the understanding that absolutes are for dictators and fools.

The New York Times - Books

Is that the understanding that the North Koreans should have?

The Washington Post

With the understanding that I would be in the firestorm".

The New York Times

America's closest intelligence relationships are predicated on the understanding that shared information will be carefully handled.

The New Yorker

"Everybody approached this with the understanding that this was a heightened reality," Ms. Ostroff said.

The New York Times - Arts

In 1981 they settled with the understanding that Apple Computer would never enter the music industry.

The Guardian

There is now the understanding that there are some big bucks to be made.

The Guardian - Sport

"This is great television," he says, with the understanding that in television "great" has many meanings.

The New York Times - Arts

"And these are people who moved in with the understanding that this airport would remain small".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the understanding that" to clearly introduce a shared agreement or assumption between parties. It strengthens communication and prevents misunderstandings.

Common error

Be careful not to use "the understanding that" when a simpler phrase like "knowing that" or "given that" would suffice. Overuse can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the understanding that" functions as a subordinating conjunction introducing a clause that specifies a condition, agreement, or accepted fact. Ludwig AI indicates its role in establishing a premise upon which a statement or action is based.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

18%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the understanding that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a condition, agreement, or shared knowledge. It functions as a subordinating conjunction and serves to establish a common ground in various discussions and plans. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across news, business, and scientific contexts. While suitable for both formal and informal writing, it's essential to avoid redundancy by using simpler alternatives when appropriate. By being mindful of its context and purpose, writers can effectively use "the understanding that" to ensure clarity and prevent misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with the awareness that

Similar in conveying a conscious recognition or realization, but emphasizes being informed or cognizant.

on the condition that

Implies a prerequisite or requirement, adding a sense of stipulation not present in the original phrase.

given the fact that

Highlights the provided information as an established truth influencing a decision or action.

in light of the fact that

Similar to "given the fact that", but with a stronger emphasis on considering new or revealing information.

recognizing that

Focuses on the act of acknowledging or accepting a certain truth or reality.

bearing in mind that

Suggests a continuous consideration of a particular detail or aspect throughout a process or discussion.

with the knowledge that

Stresses the possession of information, implying a level of certainty.

accepting that

Emphasizes the agreement with or concession to a particular point or situation.

acknowledging that

Highlights the explicit recognition of something, often with a sense of formality.

assuming that

Implies a supposition or belief without concrete proof.

FAQs

How can I use "the understanding that" in a sentence?

Use "the understanding that" to introduce a premise, condition, or agreement. For example, "We proceeded with the project with "the understanding that" all team members would contribute equally".

What's the difference between "the understanding that" and "assuming that"?

"The understanding that" suggests a mutual agreement or shared knowledge, while "assuming that" implies a supposition or belief without concrete evidence.

Is "the understanding that" formal or informal?

"The understanding that" is generally considered suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, but simpler alternatives like "knowing that" may be preferred in informal settings.

What can I say instead of "the understanding that"?

You can use alternatives like "given that", "knowing that", or "recognizing that" depending on the context.