understand the concern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'understand the concern' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when someone expresses a concern, doubt, or worry and you want to show that you are sympathetic and that you understand. For example: "I know that this change can be difficult to adjust to, but I understand the concern."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

I understand the concern over younger people fully understanding what consent is and what it looks like.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I understand the concern.

The Guardian - Tech

I understand the concern," Gates wrote.

The Guardian

"I understand the concern," Mr. Pope said.

The New York Times

"We certainly understand the concern," he told Reuters.

Independent

Chalabi says that he can understand the concern.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

I understand the concerns.

The New York Times

I understand the concerns about press freedom.

The Guardian

Chinese suitors in the aerospace industry understand the concerns.

The New York Times

"I understand the concerns and agree with them," Duma said.

The New York Times

"I can understand the concerns of the village.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "understand the concern", follow it with an explanation of why the concern is valid or how you plan to address it to show genuine empathy.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "I understand the concern" without further explanation or action, as this can sound insincere. Always follow up with details to demonstrate genuine comprehension and intent to address the issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "understand the concern" functions as a declarative statement expressing comprehension and acknowledgement of someone's worries or anxieties. It serves to establish a connection and show empathy, as supported by Ludwig's analysis and example sentences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "understand the concern" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to convey empathy and acknowledge someone's worries. According to Ludwig, it is used in various contexts, primarily in News & Media and Science. The phrase functions as a declarative statement, aiming to reassure and validate the other person's feelings. While suitable for both formal and informal settings, it is particularly useful in professional environments where demonstrating empathy is crucial. Related phrases include "appreciate the worry" and "recognize the anxiety", offering alternative ways to express similar sentiments. It is crucial to follow up with an explanation or action to demonstrate genuine understanding and address the issue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appreciate the worry

Replaces "concern" with "worry", emphasizing the emotional aspect.

comprehend your worries

Replaces "understand" with "comprehend", making the sentence more formal.

grasp the apprehension

Uses "apprehension" instead of "concern", highlighting a sense of unease.

recognize the anxiety

Substitutes "concern" with "anxiety", focusing on a state of worry and nervousness.

acknowledge the misgivings

Replaces "understand" with "acknowledge" and "concern" with "misgivings", suggesting a formal acceptance of doubts.

am aware of the issue

Shifts the focus to awareness of a problem rather than understanding a feeling.

take your worries seriously

Emphasizes the importance of the other's feelings, indicating respect and consideration.

am cognizant of the problem

Uses more formal language to indicate awareness and understanding.

see your point

Offers a more concise and informal expression of understanding.

realize your doubts

Emphasizes the acknowledgment of uncertainties harbored by someone.

FAQs

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

You can use "understand the concern" to express empathy and acknowledge someone's worries, such as, "I "understand the concern" about the new policy and we are working to address it."

What is a more formal way to say "understand the concern"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "recognize the anxiety" or "acknowledge the misgivings", which convey a similar meaning with increased formality.

Which is correct, "understand the concern" or "understood the concern"?

Both "understand the concern" and "understood the concern" are correct, but they are used in different tenses. "Understand the concern" is present tense, while "understood the concern" is past tense.

What can I say instead of "understand the concern" when I disagree with the worry?

Even if you disagree, you can still acknowledge the emotion by saying, "I "appreciate the worry", but..." This shows empathy while allowing you to present a different perspective.