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understandable

Understandable (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

adjective

IPA:

/ˌʌn dərˈstæn də bəl/

What does understandable mean?

Capable of being comprehended, grasped, or perceived with clarity and ease.
"It is understandable that she felt overwhelmed by the sudden change in circumstances."

Detailed Meaning of Understandable

When we say something is understandable, it means that it can be reasonably understood or explained in a way that makes sense to most people. It suggests that the information, concept, or situation is presented in a manner that is clear, logical, and accessible, allowing others to comprehend or make sense of it without significant difficulty or confusion. An understandable explanation or instruction is one that is clear, concise, and free from unnecessary complexity or ambiguity. Additionally, the term "understandable" acknowledges the subjective nature of comprehension, taking into account different levels of prior knowledge, context, and individual abilities. It indicates a quality that promotes effective communication, promotes learning, and facilitates the exchange of ideas by ensuring that the intended meaning is readily understandable to the intended audience.

Example Sentences for Understandable

1. Given the complex subject matter, the professor made sure to provide an understandable explanation to the students.
2. The technical manual was written in a way that made it easily understandable to users of all skill levels.
3. Despite the language barrier, they managed to have an understandable conversation using gestures and simple words.
4. The politician's speech was filled with jargon and lacked understandable points for the average listener.
5. The teacher broke down the math problem into smaller steps to make it more understandable for the students.
6. After the thorough explanation, the concept became much more understandable to the class.

Origin and Etymology of Understandable

The adjective 'understandable' can be broken down into its root word, 'understand.' In this term, the suffix '-able' is added to 'understand' to indicate the capability or quality of being comprehended. 'Understand' has its origins in the Old English word 'understandan,' where 'under' meant 'among' or 'between,' and 'standan' meant 'to stand' or 'to place oneself.' Over time, 'understand' evolved in the English language to describe the act of comprehending, grasping, or perceiving something with clarity and ease. Therefore, 'understandable' signifies something that is capable of being comprehended or perceived with clarity and ease, with its etymology deeply rooted in the historical development of 'understand' and its association with the ability to grasp knowledge or meaning.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective understandable:

baffling

incomprehensible

comprehensible

unclear

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Understandable

1. The doctor used understandable language to explain the diagnosis to the patient and their family.
2. The writer's clear and concise style made the complex topic easily understandable for readers.
3. It's understandable that he was hesitant to make a decision without more information.
4. The instructions provided in the recipe were straightforward and understandable, allowing even beginners to follow along.
5. The judge's ruling was based on understandable reasons, taking into account all the evidence presented.
6. Her explanation was clear and understandable to all.
7. It's understandable that you're feeling anxious about the exam.
8. The instructions should be easily understandable.
9. His frustration was completely understandable in that situation.
10. The concept is complex but becomes understandable with study.
11. Her reaction to the news was perfectly understandable.
12. Making the decision was not always understandable to others.
13. The presentation was concise and highly understandable.
14. Their objections were reasonable and understandable.
15. The book's message is deeply moving and understandable.
16. The software's interface is user-friendly and understandable.
17. The rules of the game are straightforward and understandable.
18. The scientific research was presented in an understandable way.
19. His reluctance to trust was completely understandable.
20. The speaker made the topic easily understandable.
21. The film's plot is convoluted but ultimately understandable.
22. Her frustration with the situation is entirely understandable.
23. The document should be written in a clear, understandable manner.
24. The policy change is intended to be more understandable.
25. Your feelings are completely valid and understandable.