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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.

But Spielberg somehow makes you understand why Dreyfuss’ Roy Neary is willing to walk away from his entire life and family over something he can’t explain.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026

Ahead of SpaceX’s blockbuster IPO on Friday, many investors have closely scrutinized the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission to understand how the business is doing.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 11, 2026

When employees understand that giving feedback is an expected and normal way of working together, they are more likely to provide honest, valuable insights.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

"It's hard for me to understand why the human heart is so hard," is the priest's take on toughening attitudes in Europe to migration.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

It was not the badger’s job to understand why the Afterlife had brought her to his door.

From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman




Vocabulary lists containing understand


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