Synonyms for

Understand

Verb / ˌʌndɜ:ˈstænd / Another word for understand — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to comprehend or grasp the meaning of something

Synonyms & similar words

realise translate infer sympathize read sympathise empathize see realize empathise interpret comprehend grasp get follow fathom see realize apprehend know perceive cognize discern absorb digest process

Synonyms by register

Formal

comprehend apprehend grasp perceive

Informal

get figure out catch on make sense of

Literary

fathom discern cognize

Antonyms

misunderstand ignore disregard neglect overlook miss

Common collocations

  • understand fully
  • understand clearly
  • understand the importance
  • understand the situation
  • understand each other
  • understand the problem
  • understand the meaning

Word family

noun understanding
verb understand
adjective understandable

Usage note

Often used with 'fully' or 'completely' to emphasize depth of comprehension. Avoid using 'understandable' to mean 'easy to hear'.

Example sentences

  1. I can understand why you are upset.
  2. Do you understand the math problem?
  3. It's important to understand different cultures.
  4. I don't understand how to use this device.
  5. She needs to understand the consequences of her actions.

Quotes

  • The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. - Nelson Mandela
  • The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing. - Socrates
  • If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. - African Proverb

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