understand completely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "understand completely" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea that you have a full understanding of something. Example: "I read the instructions twice and I think I understand them completely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I understand completely".

The New Yorker

We understand completely.

The Guardian

This I understand completely.

The New York Times - Arts

"But I understand completely why.

The New York Times - Arts

I understand completely!" she shouted at him.

The New Yorker

3 Some of you understand completely.

The New Yorker

I understand completely the fans' frustration.

The Guardian - Sport

"I understand completely why that resonates".

The New Yorker

"They understand completely the nature of our relationship with Cuba.

The New York Times - Sports

Jets Coach Eric Mangini, said: "I understand completely the concern.

The New York Times - Sports

"I understand completely what he did," Collins said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "understand completely" when you want to emphasize a full and thorough comprehension of a concept or situation. It adds strength to your assertion of understanding.

Common error

While grammatically correct, overuse of "understand completely" in casual conversation can sound overly formal or stiff. Consider using simpler alternatives like "I get it" or "I understand" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "understand completely" functions as an adverbial modifier, intensifying the verb 'understand'. It indicates a complete and thorough comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "understand completely" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to express a full and thorough comprehension. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and utilized across various domains. While appropriate for neutral to formal settings, including news, science, and business, it's important to consider the context. Overusing it in informal conversation may sound stiff, where simpler alternatives like "I get it" might be more suitable. Remember to leverage its impact when conveying a robust and comprehensive understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely comprehend

This changes the verb, keeping the intensifier.

totally understand

This uses a different adverb to express the same complete understanding.

entirely understand

Uses a different adverb to express the same complete understanding.

absolutely understand

This uses a different adverb to express the same complete understanding.

have a complete understanding

This changes the structure to a noun phrase.

fully grasp

This option emphasizes comprehension and mental acquisition.

comprehend fully

Inverts the order of the words, which affects the emphasis without significantly altering the meaning.

thoroughly comprehend

This emphasizes a deep and detailed understanding.

fully appreciate

This suggests a deeper understanding that includes emotional or personal connection.

get the full picture

This idiom suggests understanding all aspects of a situation.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "understand completely"?

You can use alternatives like "fully grasp", "thoroughly comprehend", or "completely comprehend" depending on the context.

How can I use "understand completely" in a sentence?

You can use "understand completely" to express a thorough understanding, such as: "After the explanation, I now "understand completely" the process."

Is it better to say "understand completely" or "fully understand"?

Both "understand completely" and "fully understand" are correct. The choice depends on the desired emphasis and flow of the sentence. "Fully understand" might sound slightly more natural in some contexts.

When should I avoid using "understand completely"?

Avoid using "understand completely" in very informal settings where it might sound overly formal. Simpler phrases like "I get it" or "I understand" are often more appropriate.