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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.

She explained how young children often struggle to understand death and may think the person will return.

From BBC • May 16, 2026

“I understand that every life lost is a tragedy, but there are crimes that are against humanity and against our American principles.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2026

Researchers identified specific molecules inside the exosomes that may eventually help scientists detect, better understand, and possibly treat age-related diseases.

From Science Daily • May 16, 2026

“This was a case where Mitch wasn’t confused, he just didn’t understand why he was being asked to do something when it was too late, and people were wrapping up to leave.”

From Slate • May 16, 2026

What I did understand, what was awful and alarming, was that this was the day I was to start school.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom




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