understanding something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "understanding something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the process of comprehending or grasping a concept, idea, or situation. Example: "Her ability to explain complex topics demonstrates her deep understanding of something that many find difficult."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

There's comfort in knowing something because it means we understand it, but understanding something new is powerful.

Huffington Post

The machine may be understanding something about us that we do not understand ourselves.

The New York Times - Magazine

"If your income is dependent on you not understanding something, it is very easy not to understand something".

The New York Times - Health

I'm amazed when I run into people who don't understand the pleasure in this, for it is the pleasure of creation itself, of understanding something intimately and making it new.

Independent

You start understanding something.

The New York Times - Arts

I remember travelling with a small baby and understanding something new about vulnerability.

The New Yorker

11.37am GMT Sky Sports News are now "understanding" something which is freely available for everyone to read on PSG's website.

The Guardian - Sport

In fact, understanding something ultimately means knowing the whole of which it is a part – in other words, knowing God.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Every work of art begins with an impulse, an a-ha moment of finally understanding something or being profoundly moved.

The New York Times

I want people having fierce conversations in the bar afterwards, understanding something better or seeing things differently.

The Guardian

There is an immense difference between understanding something with one's head, and understanding it with one's guts.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "understanding something" when you want to emphasize the process of gaining knowledge or comprehension about a specific topic or situation. It's versatile and appropriate for many contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "understanding something" as a placeholder when you can be more specific about what is being understood. Clarity is key, so replace "something" with a more precise noun or noun phrase whenever possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "understanding something" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the action or process of comprehending an unspecified object or concept. Ludwig AI provides examples illustrating this usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

30%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "understanding something" is a grammatically correct and very common gerund phrase used to describe the process of gaining knowledge or comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase sees widespread use across various source types, but most frequently appears in News & Media and Scientific contexts. While versatile, writers should avoid vague usage and strive for specificity. Related phrases include "comprehending something" and "grasping something", offering slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

comprehending something

Focuses more on the mental process of grasping an idea.

grasping something

Emphasizes the act of seizing or taking hold of an idea.

making sense of something

Focuses on the ability to understand something confusing or unclear.

perceiving something

Highlights the awareness and recognition of something.

realizing something

Implies a sudden awareness or understanding.

recognizing something

Focuses on identifying or acknowledging something previously unknown or unclear.

gaining insight into something

Highlights the development of a deeper understanding.

deciphering something

Suggests the process of unraveling a complex or obscure idea.

interpreting something

Emphasizes the act of explaining or giving meaning to something.

getting to grips with something

Implies starting to understand or deal with a difficult subject.

FAQs

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

You can use "understanding something" to describe the process of gaining comprehension or knowledge. For example, "Through research, I am "understanding something" new about the universe."

What are some alternatives to "understanding something"?

You can use alternatives like "comprehending something", "grasping something", or "perceiving something" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "understanding something" or "to understand something"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they function differently. "Understanding something" (gerund) acts as a noun, while "to understand something" (infinitive) functions as a verb's complement or modifier. Choose the form that fits best within the sentence structure.

What's the difference between "understanding something" and "knowing something"?

"Understanding something" implies a deeper level of comprehension and insight, while "knowing something" can simply mean having information or facts without necessarily grasping the underlying principles. For example, you can know the formula, but not "understanding something" about how to apply it.