understand
word
/ˌəndɝˈstænd/
uhn-der-STAND
/ˌʌndəstˈænd/
un-duh-STAND
Definition
To know the meaning of something or to grasp the idea of it clearly.
Usage & Nuances
Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. Often collocates with phrases like 'fully understand,' 'hard to understand,' or 'understand a point.' Not to be confused with 'know,' which implies awareness rather than comprehension.
Spanish: entender - comprenderPortuguese (BR): entender - compreenderPortuguese (PT): entender - compreenderChinese (Simplified): 理解 - 懂得Chinese (Traditional): 理解 - 懂得Hindi: समझनाArabic: يفهم - يدركBengali: বোঝা - বুঝতে পারাRussian: пониматьJapanese: 理解するVietnamese: hiểuKorean: 이해하다Turkish: anlamakUrdu: سمجھناIndonesian: memahami
Example Sentences
I think I understand what you’re trying to say.
natural
If you don’t understand, just ask me again.
natural
She doesn’t really understand how hard this job is.
natural
I understand your question.
basic
Do you understand the instructions?
basic
She doesn’t understand the problem yet.
basic