I don't understand

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   I do not know the meaning of something or do not grasp what is being said.

   Grammar: Used as a complete statement; you can add an object: 'I don't understand the question.'

   Patterns

   • I don't understand something
   • I don't understand what/why/how ...

   I don't understand this word—can you explain it?

   I don't understand why she left so early.

   He spoke very fast, so I didn't understand.

2. 2phrasefixed phrase

   I do not sympathize with or approve of someone's behavior or feelings.

   Grammar: Often followed by 'why' or a noun: I don't understand his attitude.

   Patterns

   • I don't understand someone
   • I don't understand someone's behavior

   I don't understand people who are cruel to animals.

   I just don't understand his decision to quit.

Common combinations

I don't understand a word

I don't understand a word of this legal document.

I don't understand what you mean

I don't understand what you mean by 'soon.'

I don't understand why

I don't understand why the bus is late again.

Synonyms and how they differ

I don't get it

More informal and often about a joke or a situation, not just language.

I'm confused

Focuses on your mental state rather than the lack of understanding itself.

I don't follow

More polite and often used in conversation when you lose the thread.

Word family

understand verb

To know the meaning of something.

understanding noun

The ability to know or grasp something.

Commonly confused: I don't understand or I don't know?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “I don't understand”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

Explore more words