understandably speaking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "understandably speaking" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It could be used when discussing a topic where understanding is a key element, but it is better to use more standard expressions. Example: "Understandably speaking, many people are concerned about the impact of climate change on their communities."

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Can I go shopping?'" Faced with such a daunting proposition, Tottenham were understandably speaking of "miracles" yesterday.

Independent

Understandably, speaking about the men and women who ran into the towers on that day, and the illnesses they suffer today as a result, didn't make for stoic debate.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Berg and Coldhands understandably speak about this period of their lives with a hint of nostalgia they were rap fanatics from a small town in Denmark who got to spend their early 20s palling around with Eazy-E.

Vice

In our conversations, St. Aubyn was understandably careful about speaking for Alexandra, his sister, but he recalled her supportive response: "If anyone ever asks me about my childhood, I'll just give them a copy of your book".

The New Yorker

It's an excellent initiative, and ticks a lot of boxes about addressing development and building loyalties — and de Bontin was understandably proud in speaking about the Red Bulls involvement in it.

The Guardian - Sport

When I visited Ashmount School before its eviction, the residents were – understandably – cagey about speaking to journalists.

Vice

Sure, it seems sort of shallow, but bystanders are often understandably afraid that speaking up on behalf of someone being bullied can negatively impact their social status (we've got two words for you: Regina George).

Huffington Post

It is less a memoir than a speaking wound and understandably, because Greg Bellow was eight years old when his father told him that he and Greg's mother were separating.

The New Yorker

Some people understandably declined to speak to me.

The Guardian

These marriages do not technically break any laws, but students are understandably hesitant to speak publicly about them.

The New York Times

It is hard to assess Kadyrov's true popularity, since ordinary Chechens are understandably reluctant to speak their mind to strangers.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using alternative phrases like "logically speaking" or "reasonably speaking" for smoother and more common expressions.

Common error

Avoid using "understandably speaking" in highly formal contexts such as academic papers or legal documents. Opt for more precise and conventional phrases to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "understandably speaking" functions as an introductory adverbial phrase, modifying the sentence by indicating that the following statement is made from a perspective of reason or common understanding. Ludwig highlights that while not incorrect, its usage is less common than alternatives.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science & Research

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "understandably speaking" is used to preface a statement by indicating it's made from a reasonable or logical perspective. While grammatically acceptable, Ludwig suggests it is not the most common or elegant choice, especially in formal writing. Alternative phrases such as "logically speaking" or "reasonably speaking" may provide a smoother and more conventional tone. Ludwig AI notes that its usage is rare, and it appears most frequently in news and media contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

logically speaking

Emphasizes a conclusion derived from a logical sequence.

reasonably speaking

Highlights the rationality or fairness of a statement.

from a rational perspective

Focuses on a viewpoint grounded in reason.

given the circumstances

Acknowledges the influence of specific conditions.

considering the situation

Highlights the importance of the overall context.

in light of the facts

Emphasizes objectivity and reliance on evidence.

with good reason

Indicates that there is a valid justification.

it stands to reason

Suggests that something is a logical and expected outcome.

by all accounts

Implies widespread agreement or consensus.

as might be expected

Highlights the predictable nature of an event or opinion.

FAQs

What does "understandably speaking" mean?

The phrase "understandably speaking" suggests that something is being said or considered from a perspective that takes into account common sense or reasonable expectations. It implies that the statement is logical given the circumstances.

Is "understandably speaking" grammatically correct?

While not strictly incorrect, "understandably speaking" can sound awkward. Ludwig AI suggests that it's better to use more standard expressions like "logically speaking" or "reasonably speaking".

How can I use "understandably speaking" in a sentence?

You can use "understandably speaking" to introduce a perspective that is logical or reasonable. For example: "Understandably speaking, many people are concerned about the impact of climate change."

Are there alternatives to "understandably speaking"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "logically speaking", "reasonably speaking", or "from a rational perspective" depending on the context. These alternatives often provide a more polished and conventional tone.