Understand

Definition

Understand is a verb meaning to grasp the meaning, significance, or nature of something. It can also mean to interpret or infer something correctly, or to show sympathy or awareness of someone's situation.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌʌn.dɚˈstænd/
• Respelling: UN-duhr-STAND

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌʌn.dəˈstænd/
• Respelling: UN-duh-STAND

Etymology

The word "understand" originates from Old English "understandan," meaning "to comprehend, grasp the idea of." It is derived from "under-" (among or between) and "standan" (to stand), implying "to stand in the midst of" or "to grasp thoroughly."

Derivatives

• Understanding (noun)
• Understandable (adjective)
• Understood (verb, past tense)
• Misunderstand (verb)
• Understandably (adverb)

Synonyms

• Comprehend
• Grasp
• Perceive

Antonyms

• Misunderstand
• Confuse
• Ignore

Usage

The verb "understand" is often used to describe cognitive or empathetic comprehension, as in "I understand the instructions clearly." It can also convey empathy: "I understand how you feel about the situation."

Related Terms

• Comprehension: The ability to understand something.
• Perception: The process of becoming aware or understanding through senses.
• Interpretation: The action of explaining or understanding the meaning of something.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To grasp the meaning, significance, or nature of something: Refers to intellectual comprehension.
  • Example: "He understood the complex theory after careful study."
• To interpret or infer something correctly: Refers to forming an accurate conclusion.
  • Example: "I understand that the meeting has been postponed."
• To show sympathy or awareness: Refers to emotional or empathetic comprehension.
  • Example: "She understood his frustration after hearing his story."