wider understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wider understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the need for a more comprehensive or inclusive grasp of a topic or issue. Example: "To address the complexities of climate change, we must strive for a wider understanding of its impacts on various ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And as for any wider understanding of horticulture – forget it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

(Allen calls solitary confinement a "gateway issue" for wider understanding of prison reform).

The New Yorker

In the UK, there will be a far wider understanding gap to overcome.

The Guardian

But where that gets us in terms of wider understanding is debatable.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

So when I came back to serve as director of RBM, I brought a much wider understanding of what was needed in the health field.

The Guardian

As someone who identifies as "lesbian and gender fluid", she encouraged a wider understanding of gender identities outside the traditional binary, the organisation said.

The Guardian

Platforms such as iF, says James, are vital in ensuring that wider understanding of disability trickles down, not only in the theatre but throughout society.

The Guardian

This is the obvious outcome of a wider understanding of legal equality: why should private property be protected while the common wealth of humanity is not?

The Guardian - Opinion

Each book does what science does best: start with a carefully-framed question, and use it as an instrument to expose a wider understanding.

The Guardian

Spelling, Horobin suggests, could be used "as a door to a wider understanding and appreciation of the structure of the English language, its history and its diversity".

The Guardian

The talks reflect a wider understanding in the art world about the way people want their fine-art discussions served up.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to promote inclusivity, use "wider understanding" to encourage consideration of diverse perspectives.

Common error

Avoid using "wider understanding" when "deeper understanding" is more appropriate. "Wider" implies breadth, while "deeper" suggests a more profound level of knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wider understanding" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. As shown by Ludwig, it denotes the state of having a more extensive or inclusive comprehension of a particular subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wider understanding" is a frequently used noun phrase that advocates for enhanced and inclusive comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and versatility across contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. While similar to phrases like "broader understanding" and "deeper understanding", it uniquely emphasizes the breadth of knowledge. When using this phrase, consider whether breadth or depth is more relevant to your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broader understanding

Emphasizes the breadth of comprehension rather than its depth, similar to the original phrase.

deeper understanding

Highlights a more profound level of comprehension, focusing on depth rather than breadth.

comprehensive understanding

Suggests a complete and thorough grasp of the subject matter.

enhanced understanding

Focuses on the improvement or augmentation of one's current understanding.

greater insight

Shifts the focus to intuition and discernment, providing a clearer view.

broader perspective

Highlights the overall viewpoint, differing from detailed comprehension.

expanded awareness

Focuses on being more conscious or informed, rather than deeply knowing.

improved comprehension

Concentrates on the act of understanding more effectively.

more complete picture

Implies having all the necessary information to form a thorough view.

fuller appreciation

Emphasizes valuing and recognizing the importance of something more completely.

FAQs

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

You can use "wider understanding" to emphasize the importance of considering diverse perspectives or expanding knowledge on a particular subject. For example, "The program aims to promote a wider understanding of cultural differences."

What can I say instead of "wider understanding"?

You can use alternatives like "broader understanding", "comprehensive understanding", or "enhanced understanding" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "wider understanding" or "deeper understanding"?

Both "wider understanding" and "deeper understanding" are correct, but they have different meanings. Use "wider understanding" when referring to breadth of knowledge and "deeper understanding" when referring to depth of knowledge.

What's the difference between "wider understanding" and "broader perspective"?

"Wider understanding" focuses on comprehensive knowledge, while "broader perspective" emphasizes a more inclusive viewpoint. You might seek a wider understanding of a complex issue to gain a broader perspective on its implications.