English pronunciation · Words Starting with U
Understanding Pronunciation
Understanding is pronounced uhn-der-STAN-ding, IPA /ˌəndɝˈstændɪŋ/.
uhn-der-STAN-ding
US /ˌəndɝˈstændɪŋ/ · UK /ˌʌndəˈstændɪŋ/
Syllables: uhn · der · STAN · ding (4 syllables, stress on syllable 3)
noun and adjective: Knowledge of how something works, an informal agreement, or being sympathetic towards others.
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Understanding in a Sentence
- We came to an understanding about the rent.
- Her understanding of the subject is better than mine.
- He has been very understanding about the delay.
Common Mispronunciations of Understanding
Not UHN-der-stan-ding
STAN still holds the push even with a fourth beat added. English endings of this kind never take the weight for themselves.
Not uhn-der-stan-DING
The ding at the close is light and quick. Letting it rise turns the word into a question of rhythm rather than of grammar.
Tip: An understanding can be an informal deal, which is why reaching one is not the same as signing anything.
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