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Showing results for understanding.
Definitions

understanding

[uhn-der-stan-ding] / ˌʌn dərˈstæn dɪŋ /
ADJECTIVE
accepting, tolerant
Synonyms
STRONGEST
compassionate considerate empathetic forgiving generous kindly perceptive sympathetic
STRONG
discerning forbearing kind patient sensitive
WEAK
responsive
Antonyms
STRONGEST
disagreeable inconsiderate mean merciless selfish unfeeling unsympathetic
STRONG
impatient intolerant
WEAK
unaccepting
NOUN
comprehension, appreciation
Synonyms
STRONGEST
awareness grasp insight intelligence judgment knowledge perception realization recognition sense
STRONG
acumen apperception apprehension assimilation decipherment discernment discrimination grip intellect intuition ken knowing mastery penetration perceptiveness perceptivity perspicacity prehension reason savvy sharpness wit
WEAK
percipience uptake
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ignorance stupidity
STRONG
misunderstanding
WEAK
disagreement disbelief misinterpretation mistake
NOUN
belief
Synonyms
STRONGEST
conclusion idea impression interpretation judgment knowledge meaning opinion perception sense sympathy view
STRONG
acceptation conception estimation import inkling message notion purport significance signification viewpoint
WEAK
intendment significancy
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ignorance
STRONG
insignificance
WEAK
disagreement disbelief misinterpretation mistake misunderstanding
NOUN
informal agreement
Synonyms
STRONGEST
accord harmony pact
STRONG
concord deal handshake
WEAK
common view meeting of minds
Antonyms
STRONGEST
disagreement
WEAK
disbelief misinterpretation mistake misunderstanding

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.

It was this understanding that made the French philosophe so eloquent a defender of the rule of law and so severe a critic of direct taxation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

“I would really want the benefit of understanding what the judges think about the issue.”

From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026

Scientists have reported a major experimental advance in understanding how some of the rarest elements in the universe are formed.

From Science Daily • Apr. 14, 2026

"I hope audiences leave with a better understanding of what Belfast went through but also some empathy for all the characters just to see it's not all black and white."

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

I’m already shaking my head, impatient myself at his lack of understanding.

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse

Vocabulary lists containing understanding

Positive Words to Describe People, List 1

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myPerspectives 7.5

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"Principles of Business," Vocabulary from Chapter 7

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!