understand the question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "understand the question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to confirm whether someone comprehends the inquiry being posed. Example: "Before we proceed, can you please confirm that you understand the question I just asked?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I don't understand the question".

The New York Times - Books

"I understand the question.

The Guardian - Film

He seemed not to understand the question.

The New Yorker

I failed to understand the question.

Independent

KAZAN: I don't understand the question.

The New Yorker

"I don't understand the question".

The Guardian - Travel

B doesn't understand the question.

The New Yorker

"I don't understand the question," he said.

The New Yorker

Now, we understand the question is meaningless.

The Guardian

"I don't understand the question," said Osman.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Wait, maybe I didn't understand the question?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In interviews or formal settings, if you don't immediately "understand the question", it's acceptable to ask for clarification. This shows engagement and a desire to provide a thoughtful response.

Common error

Avoid answering a question you only partially "understand". Guessing can lead to irrelevant or incorrect responses. Request clarification to ensure you're addressing the core of the inquiry.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "understand the question" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase often used as a direct object or part of a clause expressing comprehension or a lack thereof. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its role in conveying whether someone grasps the meaning of a query, as shown by the numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "understand the question" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase across diverse contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function involves expressing or inquiring about comprehension. While versatile in application, it is crucial to ensure genuine understanding before attempting a response, seeking clarification when necessary. Common alternatives include "comprehend the question" and "grasp the question". The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication, highlighting its broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

comprehend the question

Replaces "understand" with "comprehend", maintaining a formal tone and direct meaning.

grasp the question

Substitutes "understand" with "grasp", implying a quick and thorough understanding.

interpret the question

Focuses on the act of interpreting the question, suggesting a deeper level of analysis.

be clear on the question

Highlights the state of being certain and unambiguous about what the question is asking.

fathom the question

Uses "fathom" instead of "understand", indicating an effort to comprehend a complex or puzzling question.

make sense of the question

Emphasizes the process of making the question coherent or meaningful.

get the gist of the question

Focuses on understanding the main point or general meaning of the question.

perceive the question

Emphasizes the act of becoming aware or conscious of the question's content.

follow the question

Indicates an ability to trace or understand the line of reasoning in the question.

decipher the question

Suggests that the question requires decoding or unraveling due to its complexity.

FAQs

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

You can use "understand the question" to inquire if someone comprehends what is being asked, such as, "Do you "understand the question" before I proceed?" or "If you don't "understand the question", please ask for clarification."

What can I say instead of "understand the question"?

You can use alternatives like "comprehend the question", "grasp the question", or "interpret the question" depending on the context.

Is it impolite to say I don't "understand the question"?

No, it's generally not impolite. It's better to admit you don't "understand the question" and ask for clarification than to provide an incorrect or irrelevant answer. You can phrase it politely, such as, "I'm sorry, I don't quite "understand the question". Could you please rephrase it?"

What's the difference between "understand the question" and "answer the question"?

"Understand the question" refers to comprehending the meaning and intent of the question being posed. "Answer the question", on the other hand, refers to providing a response or solution that addresses the question.