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understandable

B2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ˌʌndəstˈændəbəl/

US

  • /ˌəndərˈstændəbəl/

Description

Something that's understandable is not confusing; it makes sense. Think about explaining a game to a friend: if you explain the rules clearly, they should be easy to follow. It does not always mean agreeing with something; it simply means being able to see why someone might think or act in a certain way. A child's tantrum might be frustrating, but it is often understandable because of their age and their limited ability to express themselves. Sometimes even difficult behavior can seem understandable when you know the person's story.

It is a useful word when you want to show empathy or explain a situation in a clear, human way. You might say, "His decision was difficult, but understandable given the circumstances."

Examples

  1. 1

    Classroom explanation

    The teacher explained the grammar in clear, understandable language.

  2. 2

    Noisy message

    Her message was understandable, even with a lot of background noise.

  3. 3

    Software design

    The app is designed to be understandable to people who have never used this kind of software before.

    • Pattern

      understandable to + person/group

      clear enough for that person or group to understand

  4. 4

    Natural reaction

    It's understandable that he's nervous about starting a new job.

    • Pattern

      it is understandable that + clause

      someone's reaction makes sense

  5. 5

    Disappointment

    Their disappointment was understandable after months of preparation.

  6. 6

    Acceptable reasons

    For understandable reasons, she didn't want to talk about the accident.

    • Phrase

      for understandable reasons

      for reasons that people can accept

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • understandableadjective