B2nouneducationrelationships
US/ˌʌn.dərˈstæn.dɪŋ/
UK/ˌʌn.dəˈstæn.dɪŋ/
knowledge of something; also sympathy for other people's feelings, or an informal agreement
In context
You need a basic understanding of math to learn programming.
Thank you for your understanding while we repair the elevator.
We have an understanding: I cook, and he does the dishes.
Words that go with understanding
adjective + noun
- basic understandingEvery driver should have a basic understanding of first aid.
- deep understandingTraveling gave her a deep understanding of other cultures.
- mutual understandingStudent exchanges build mutual understanding between countries.
noun + preposition
- understanding ofHis understanding of English grammar is better than mine.
verb + noun
- reach an understandingAfter a long talk, the two sides reached an understanding.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He has a good understanding about computers.Correct: He has a good understanding of computers.
Incorrect:
Thank you for your understand.Correct: Thank you for your understanding.