comprehend
Usage
What are other ways to say comprehend?
To comprehend is to know something thoroughly and to perceive its relationships to certain other ideas, facts, etc. To know is to be aware of something as a fact or truth: He knows the basic facts of the subject. I know that he agrees with me. To understand is to be fully aware not only of the meaning of something but also of its implications: I could comprehend all he said, but did not understand that he was joking.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Here’s another way to comprehend the incomprehensible scale of a trillion dollars.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026
“The loss of so many young lives is difficult to comprehend, and our hearts go out to the victims’ families, friends, classmates, loved ones, and all those affected by this heartbreaking event,” police wrote.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026
Even now Mr. Pelley doesn’t seem to comprehend why he was fired.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026
Willis said she was a "huge fan" of the show, adding: "To be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can't quite comprehend."
From BBC • May 19, 2026
“I can comprehend your going on charmingly, when you had once made a beginning; but what could set you off in the first place?”
From "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
Vocabulary lists containing comprehend
Vocabulary of the Common Core
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List 4
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Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
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