Definition understand in American English

If you don't understand, just put your hand up.

The instructions were difficult to understand.

I don't understand a word you're saying.

I don't quite understand where you want me to put it.

Do they fully understand the implications of their decision?

We are only beginning to understand how the brain functions.

He says his wife doesn't understand him.

I understand your concern, but the operation is completely safe.

Does she understand why he doesn't want to see her?

I can understand his not inviting Joan (=understand why he does not invite her).

We understand that a major announcement is to be made tomorrow.

Mr. Lang is understood to favor more traditional teaching methods.

The object of the verb is understood with words such as "to smoke" and "to read."