we can understand

USAGE SUMMARY

"we can understand" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when expressing shared comprehension or agreement, or acknowledging the understanding of something by a group. For example, "We can understand why the policy was changed; it makes perfect sense."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Not understanding ourselves, we can understand nothing else either.

The Guardian - Opinion

By understanding ourselves, we can understand others better.

Huffington Post

We can understand disappointment.

The New York Times

It's language we can understand.

Independent

That much we can understand.

The New Yorker

We can understand his frustration.

The Washington Post

"We can understand how life began".

The New York Times - Science

"We can understand their mood," said Acharya.

The Guardian

The linesman's tears, those we can understand.

The New York Times - Sports

On reflection, we can understand this.

Harvard Business Review

Let it be we can understand each other".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can understand" to express a shared understanding or agreement with a particular situation or viewpoint. For example, "We can understand the need for budget cuts in the current economic climate."

Common error

While "we can understand" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in formal writing. Opt for more precise verbs like "comprehend", "appreciate", or "recognize" for greater impact and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can understand" functions as a statement of comprehension or empathy. It indicates that the speaker(s) have an understanding of a situation, feeling, or concept. Ludwig AI highlights its correct usage in expressing shared comprehension or agreement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science & Research

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we can understand" is a common and generally acceptable expression used to convey comprehension, empathy, or agreement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts. While versatile, it's essential to consider the formality of the setting and opt for more precise language in highly formal writing. Alternatives like "we comprehend", "we recognize", or "we appreciate" can add nuance and sophistication. It's widely used in News & Media and Science & Research.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are able to comprehend

Replaces 'can understand' with 'are able to comprehend', indicating a capacity for understanding.

we are capable of grasping

Uses 'capable of grasping' instead of 'can understand', suggesting an ability to fully seize the meaning.

we are in a position to appreciate

Substitutes 'can understand' with 'are in a position to appreciate', implying a developed understanding.

we are cognizant of

Employs 'cognizant of' in place of 'can understand', indicating awareness and knowledge.

we recognize

Replaces the entire phrase with a single verb 'recognize', simplifying the expression of understanding.

we perceive

Uses the word 'perceive' instead of 'understand' which conveys the idea of becoming aware through the senses.

we realize

Employs 'realize' instead of 'understand', suggesting a sudden awareness or understanding.

we see

A more informal way to convey that you comprehend something.

we get it

A very informal and colloquial expression of understanding.

it is clear to us

Shifts the focus to the clarity of the concept rather than our ability to understand.

FAQs

How can I use "we can understand" in a sentence?

"We can understand" is used to express that a group or individuals comprehend or sympathize with a situation. For example, "We can understand your frustration with the delays."

What are some alternatives to "we can understand"?

Alternatives include "we are able to comprehend", "we recognize", or "we appreciate", depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "we can understand" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "we can understand" may sometimes be too informal for highly formal contexts. Consider alternatives such as "we are cognizant of" or "we recognize the importance of" to maintain a more elevated tone.

What is the difference between "we can understand" and "we agree with"?

"We can understand" indicates comprehension or empathy, while "we agree with" signifies alignment in opinion or belief. You can understand something without necessarily agreeing with it, and vice versa.