Definition of understandingnext
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2
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

2 of 3

adjective

understanding

3 of 3

verb

present participle of understand
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3

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
Additionally, partners need to have a clear understanding of how the innovator, supply chain and brand will share the risks associated with adopting a new technology. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2026 The lyrics point to an understanding that change requires sacrifice. — Literary Hub, 23 Oct. 2026
Adjective
Here’s how understanding fluid intelligence can give you a useful lens for how people think, learn and adapt in everyday life, according to psychological research. — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026 At the command, my commanding officer was very understanding. — Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 10 May 2026
Verb
Tantalizing opportunities may be found in copper-oxide ceramics known as cuprates, but achieving them requires first understanding how the superconducting phenomenon emerges at relatively warm temperatures. — Sven Badoux, New Atlas, 23 Oct. 2026 Transportation costs and freight optimization also need to be part of that equation, starting with greater cost transparency and understanding freight separately from the cost of goods. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for understanding
Recent Examples of Synonyms for understanding
Noun
  • The agreement is tied to Lloyd and cannot be transferred to another campus.
    — Tim Lonergan, Sun Sentinel, 29 Oct. 2026
  • And the ratings would certainly suggest the country is in firm agreement on the Celebrity Traitors superiority this season.
    — Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 29 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Trump has also been chastened into a more realistic appreciation of Beijing’s power.
    — Ali Wyne, Foreign Affairs, 29 Oct. 2026
  • Treating your partner with respect and appreciation can strengthen your bond and help both of you feel more secure in an uncertain world.
    — Barton Goldsmith, AJC.com, 28 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Gentle parenting has become a buzzword on social media, often presented as a calm, connected, and compassionate alternative to traditional discipline.
    — Alex Vance, Parents, 25 Oct. 2026
  • Others discussed overcoming the initial awkwardness of the work and finding satisfaction in helping doctors become more competent and compassionate.
    — Daniel Hunt, Sacbee.com, 18 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • There is just enough wry humor—think Shaun of the Dead—sprinkled throughout to keep things from getting too grim, often deriving from Bryan’s cluelessness and general lack of skills.
    — Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 22 Sep. 2026
  • The Chiefs finished dead last in the NFL with 362 yards deriving from explosive rushes last season.
    — Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 15 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • A week ago, the Chiefs were in Seattle, who signed cornerback Terrion Arnold in August, knowing Arnold is still facing eight first-degree felony chargers, including three counts of kidnapping, which could carry a maximum sentence of life in prison.
    — Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 29 Oct. 2026
  • When the three networks divided up the Big Ten’s TV games last spring, Byczek said NBC also zeroed in on that game, as well as USC’s matchups with Ohio State and Penn State, knowing both would fit well featured in prime time.
    — Ryan Kartje, Los Angeles Times, 29 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • Bahdanau was working with artificial neural networks, which had already shown promise in pattern-recognition tasks such as deciphering handwriting and identifying objects in photos.
    — Quanta Magazine, Quanta Magazine, 12 Oct. 2026
  • In addition to developing better medicines or perfumes, deciphering the mirror images of molecules can help scientists understand the chemical architecture of life, said chemist Holden Thorp, editor-in-chief of the journal Science.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 8 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • In August, Saudi Arabia signed a mutual-defense pact with Turkey and nuclear-armed Pakistan.
    — Fareed Zakaria, Washington Post, 23 Oct. 2026
  • The Hoichoi pact follows two other high-profile licensing moves.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 22 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Totally changes your perception of the top- and bottom-line misses .
    — Jim Cramer, CNBC, 30 Oct. 2026
  • Back Up Boundaries With Data Use data to establish boundaries to remove any perception of emotion or subjectivity.
    — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 30 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Understanding.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/understanding. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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