understand the challenge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "understand the challenge" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a problem or difficulty that needs to be addressed or solved. Example: "Before we proceed, it's important to understand the challenge we are facing in this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

On the other hand, you can understand the challenge.

The New York Times

"It's hard for most people to understand the challenge for those firefighters who survived," he said.

The New York Times

"Most people here, including the political class, understand the challenge," Mr. Nastase said in an interview.

The New York Times

"They're realists; they understand the challenge," Mr. Sweeny said of young Americans now.

The New York Times

Its leaders understand the challenge of climate change better than their predecessors and perhaps their international peers, too.

The Economist

We are people with decades of deep technical experience, who understand the challenge involved in learning a new approach.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

I understand the challenges young people face.

The Guardian

I understand the challenges you face.

The New York Times

MPs will understand the challenges they faced.

The Guardian

"I understand the challenges," she says.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Obama appears to understand the challenges.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "understand the challenge", ensure you clearly define the specific challenge you are referring to for clarity.

Common error

Avoid vague references. Instead of simply stating "understand the challenge", specify what aspects of the challenge are being understood to provide context and meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "understand the challenge" functions primarily as a cognitive verb phrase, indicating comprehension or awareness of a difficult situation or task. As shown by Ludwig, it highlights the mental process of grasping the nature of a problem.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

12%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "understand the challenge" is a versatile phrase used to express comprehension of a difficult situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. Alternatives like "grasp the difficulty" or "comprehend the obstacle" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly define the challenge for better clarity. Remember, it's about grasping the complexities before attempting a resolution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Grasp the difficulty

Focuses on fully grasping the problematic nature of the situation.

Comprehend the obstacle

Highlights the understanding of an impediment that needs to be overcome.

Appreciate the complexity

Emphasizes recognizing the intricate and multifaceted nature of the challenge.

Recognize the adversity

Stresses the acknowledgment of hardship and unfavorable conditions.

Be aware of the hurdle

Highlights awareness of a barrier that must be cleared.

Realize the test

Focuses on acknowledging the situation as a trial or assessment.

Acknowledge the struggle

Emphasizes admitting the presence of a demanding effort or fight.

Perceive the predicament

Highlights the ability to see and understand a difficult or dangerous situation.

Fathom the issue

Focuses on deeply understanding the problem at hand.

See the big picture

Indicates understanding the overall context and implications of the challenge.

FAQs

How can I use "understand the challenge" in a sentence?

You can use "understand the challenge" to express comprehension of a difficult situation, for instance: "It's important to "understand the challenge" before attempting to solve it."

What are some alternatives to "understand the challenge"?

Alternatives include "grasp the difficulty", "comprehend the obstacle", or "appreciate the complexity" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "understand the challenge" or "understand the challenges"?

The choice depends on whether you're referring to a single, overarching challenge or multiple distinct challenges. Use "challenges" when discussing various hurdles.

How does "understand the challenge" differ from "accept the challenge"?

"Understand the challenge" means comprehending the difficulties involved, while "accept the challenge" implies a willingness to face and overcome those difficulties.