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understanding

/ʌndəˈstandɪŋ/

verb

Meaning

  • To grasp a concept fully and thoroughly, especially (of words, statements, art, etc.) to be aware of the meaning of and (of people) to be aware of the intent of.

    "I'm sorry. I don't understand."

  • To believe, to think one grasps sufficiently despite potentially incomplete knowledge.

    "I understand that you have a package for me?"

  • (obsolete outside circus, acrobatics) To stand underneath, to support.

Synonyms

believe,
apprehend,
comprehend,
grasp,
grok,
know,
perceive,
pick up what someone is putting down,
realise

noun

Meaning

  • (gerund) The act of one that understands or comprehends; comprehension; knowledge; discernment.

  • Reason or intelligence, ability to grasp the full meaning of knowledge, ability to infer.

  • Opinion, judgement or outlook.

    "According to my understanding, the situation is quite perilous. I wonder if you see it this way, too."

  • An agreement of minds; harmony; something mutually understood or agreed upon.

  • Sympathy.

    "He showed much understanding for my problems when he heard about my past."

adjective

Meaning

  • Showing compassion.

  • Knowing; skilful.