understanding of something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "understanding of something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing knowledge or comprehension regarding a specific topic or concept. Example: "Her understanding of quantum physics is impressive, and she often shares her insights with her peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

As a teacher I know the importance of analogies in helping students gain a greater understanding of something previously unfamiliar.

The Guardian - Opinion

To improve our understanding of something like that, which has a huge impact on people, is really valuable".

The Guardian

I also came to a better understanding of something I'd noticed about Norwegians: their nearly religious awe for their land.

The New York Times - Travel

"The art world cuts you almost infinite slack, whereas science museums are at least hoping that someone comes out with some greater understanding of something," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

For him, this model involved "the myth of presence", the supposition that we gain our best understanding of something when it - and it alone - is present to consciousness.

The Guardian

Sure, seeing a cousin who can answer a couple of scientific questions about fracking may have enriched my understanding of something that I write about, but those conversations are the incidental benefits of a social experience, not its raison d'être.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

The hope was to gain a bit of a better understanding of how something so weightless could feel so weighty how something so utterly benign could have such sharp teeth.

Vice

He even seemed to develop an understanding of absence, something akin to the concept of zero.

The New Yorker

There might also be new classes on respect for, and understanding of, religions – something the fiercely secular French education system has traditionally resisted.

Independent

She has a lovely understanding of how something as simple as a credit card advertisement can gum up the emotional works for days, for all the absurd images it inspires ("Have lobster in Sydney with a man not your husband!").

The New York Times - Books

Some of these will irk me considerably, but your willingness to publish perspectives from across the spectrum enables understanding of others – something sorely needed in today's increasingly partisan world.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "understanding of something" when you want to emphasize a developed or comprehensive grasp of a specific subject. For instance: "Her "understanding of something" abstract like theoretical physics is remarkable."

Common error

While grammatically sound, avoid using "understanding of something" in contexts where simpler terms like "knowing something" or "being aware of something" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "understanding of something" functions as a noun phrase, specifically a prepositional phrase, indicating a cognitive grasp or comprehension regarding a particular subject or concept. It's used to describe the extent to which someone comprehends an idea, object, or situation. Ludwig confirms this as a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

32%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "understanding of something" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to describe one's comprehension or knowledge of a particular subject. Ludwig confirms its correctness and common usage across various contexts. While alternatives like "grasp of something" or "knowledge of something" exist, the choice depends on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey. Remember to use the phrase judiciously, avoiding overuse in simpler contexts, and always strive for clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grasp of something

Emphasizes a firm hold or control over the subject matter.

comprehension of something

Focuses on the mental process of grasping the meaning.

knowledge of something

Highlights the factual awareness and information possessed.

awareness of something

Implies a consciousness or recognition of the subject.

insight into something

Suggests a deeper, more intuitive understanding.

perception of something

Relates to how something is interpreted through the senses or intellect.

appreciation of something

Highlights the value and positive qualities recognized.

realization of something

Emphasizes the moment of becoming fully aware or understanding.

familiarity with something

Suggests a comfortable and well-acquainted understanding.

acquaintance with something

Implies a basic or introductory level of understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "understanding of something" in a sentence?

You can use "understanding of something" to describe someone's comprehension or knowledge about a particular topic. For example: "A deep "grasp of something" like history helps us understand current events."

What are some alternatives to "understanding of something"?

Alternatives include "knowledge of something", "comprehension of something", or "awareness of something". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "understanding of something" or "understanding about something"?

"Understanding of something" is generally preferred when referring to a specific subject or concept. "Understanding about something" is less common and might sound awkward. It's more natural to say, "He has a good "knowledge of something" like art history" rather than "understanding about art history".

What's the difference between "understanding of something" and "appreciation of something"?

"Understanding of something" implies a cognitive grasp of the subject, while "appreciation of something" suggests a recognition of its value or quality. You can have an understanding without appreciation, and vice versa. For example, you can understand the mechanics of a car without appreciating its design.