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comprehend

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /kəmˈprɛnd/

KK: /kəmˈprɛnd/

transitive verb
Definition

To understand something fully, including its meaning or importance.


Example

It can be difficult to comprehend complex ideas without proper explanation.


Tense Forms

Past: comprehended

Past Participle: comprehended


Conversation
Sloth A
I really struggle to comprehend all the details in this book.
Sloth B
Yeah, some parts can be pretty dense and confusing.
Sloth A
Maybe we should discuss it together; it might help me comprehend better.
Sloth B
That's a great idea! Talking it out always makes things clearer.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grasp
understand
fathom
Antonyms
misunderstand
overlook
ignore
Root Explanation

Comprehend → It is formed from "com-" (meaning together) and "prehendere" (meaning to seize or grasp). The word means to grasp or understand something fully, as if taking it in together.

Memory Tip

Think of 'grasping' something 'together' — 'com-' means together, and 'prehendere' means to seize. This helps you remember that to comprehend means to fully understand.

Visually Confused Words
recomprehend
precomprehend
miscomprehend
coapprehend
uncomprehended
incomprehended
prehend
uncomprehending
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