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Definitions

understand

[uhn-der-stand] / ˌʌn dərˈstænd /




Usage

What are other ways to say understand? 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. 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 comprehend is to know something thoroughly and to perceive its relationships to certain other ideas, facts, etc. 

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.

The only humans who remain are a team of about a dozen park rangers and Department of Interior scientists who are working to review the fire damage and understand the scale of the loss.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

"We understand the concerns people have about their communities and will always balance the right to freedom of expression with the need to tackle crime without fear or favour."

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

I also see a great role for individuals who understand internal politics in organizations—as AI creates winners and losers, the ability to persuade and solve conflict will be a premium skill.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

Scientists are still working to fully understand the long-term effects of TFA.

From Science Daily • Jun. 9, 2026

“She usually says, ‘This is like the House of Stray Cats,’ because a stray cat’s territory is way bigger than people understand.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith




Vocabulary lists containing understand


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