understanding 1 of 3

Definition of understandingnext
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as in appreciation
the knowledge gained from the process of coming to know or understand something a social observer with a deep understanding of the problems that the nation's cities face in the 21st century

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

understanding

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adjective

understanding

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verb

present participle of understand
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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of understanding
Noun
With nearly all the votes counted, Angelenos are now getting a more granular understanding of the strongholds built up by each of the top three mayoral candidates. Los Angeles Times, 13 June 2026 More research could shed light on these pathways that could lead to a greater understanding of the causes of cancer at a molecular level. Omer Awan, Forbes.com, 13 June 2026
Adjective
That’s important, because previously the 450h+ lived in a financial neighborhood that required either a generous bonus or a very understanding accountant. New Atlas, 2 May 2026 That’s why understanding how carbon monoxide detectors work is essential for protecting your household. Tribune News Service, Baltimore Sun, 20 Jan. 2026
Verb
Out of the whole team, the CEO is the only one charged with understanding the full enterprise. Matthew Warren, Forbes.com, 5 June 2026 These tasks include learning, reasoning, problem-solving, understanding language and recognition patterns. Jeff Lazerson, Oc Register, 4 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for understanding
Recent Examples of Synonyms for understanding
Noun
  • On Monday, the Plano City Council will vote on an agreement for the Stars to build a new arena at the Willow Bend Mall site.
    S.E. Jenkins, CBS News, 9 June 2026
  • Under the plea agreement, Copeland faces a minimum of 40 years in prison, a dishonorable discharge from the Navy, forfeiture of all pay and a reduction in rank.
    Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 9 June 2026
Noun
  • Bottled at 55% ABV, Le 55 Rhum delivers a vivid expression of cane and terroir, and its success speaks to the rising appreciation for cane juice spirits.
    Hudson Lindenberger, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026
  • Jalen has always been outspoken about his appreciation for his mother and the sacrifices she’s made for him and his sister, Erica.
    Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 12 June 2026
Adjective
  • And that’s what drove me creatively — to be authentic, but to be compassionate.
    Antonia Blyth, Deadline, 10 June 2026
  • The unconscious Moon in your 8th House of Intimacy forms a graceful trine with compassionate Venus in your 12th House of Solitude, inviting release without drama.
    Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 8 June 2026
Verb
  • But deriving a unified theory of volcanism will require a geologic Manhattan Project.
    Quanta Magazine, Quanta Magazine, 8 May 2026
  • On Thursday, a jury found Geisy Rodriguez Brito, 33, of Royal Palm Beach, guilty of human trafficking and unlawful use of a two-way communications device but not guilty of deriving support from the proceeds of prostitution or witness tampering.
    Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 15 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Here was a man who answered the bell for nearly six years knowing that the audience had virtually disappeared because of a dispute with Comcast.
    Troy Renck, Denver Post, 11 June 2026
  • That real trust can be rare, from knowing other young lads (at Liverpool) and their experiences on loan.
    Andy Jones, New York Times, 10 June 2026
Verb
  • An education tent will provide free education and resources regarding topics from deciphering Title IX to end-of-life care and self-advocacy.
    Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 4 June 2026
  • Armed with an adventure kit, participants are summoned to a secret location where they’re tasked with deciphering cryptic codes, uncovering hidden symbols, navigating shifting alliances and outwit enemies and operatives stationed around the campus.
    Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 May 2026
Noun
  • According to the Islamic Republic of Iran broadcasting, Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the pact is still being reviewed by the country’s top officials.
    Bart Jansen, USA Today, 13 June 2026
  • Jackson is entering the final year of his two-year pact — signed in 2025 — and Young had his fifth-year option picked up in April.
    Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 12 June 2026
Noun
  • Remember, Mercury oversees communication, information, planning and perception, while Saturn brings limits, discipline, scrutiny and reality checks.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 9 June 2026
  • And William seems to be fighting not just complicated family dynamics, but public perception.
    Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 9 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Understanding.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/understanding. Accessed 14 Jun. 2026.

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