understandable
4 antonyms and opposites of understandable, grouped by meaning.
Adjective — Able to be understood; clear.
Antonyms
How to use understandable
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From understand plus the suffix -able.
Full origin of understandable →Frequently asked questions
What does “understandable” mean?
The word “understandable” means able to be understood; clear. In plain terms, easy to make sense of, or reasonable to feel given the situation.
How do you use “understandable” in a sentence?
Here is “understandable” used in a sentence: “The teacher gave an understandable explanation of the tax system.”
What is the opposite of “understandable”?
The opposite of “understandable” — its antonyms — are incomprehensible, unfathomable, inexcusable and unacceptable.
What part of speech is “understandable”?
“Understandable” is an adjective.
Is “understandable” a common word?
“Understandable” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “understandable” have?
“Understandable” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: able to be understood; clear.
What is the difference between understandable and understanding?
Understandable describes something that can be understood or that makes sense given the circumstances, such as an understandable mistake. Understanding describes a person's quality of being sympathetic or patient toward others. The two words apply to different things: situations versus people.
When do you use understandable instead of clear?
Clear usually refers to something being easy to grasp because it is well explained or unambiguous, such as clear instructions. Understandable can carry that same sense, but it is also used to describe reactions or feelings that make sense given the circumstances, such as understandable frustration.
Can understandable describe an emotion or reaction?
Yes, understandable is often used to say a feeling or behaviour is reasonable given the situation, even if it is not ideal, as in 'her anger was understandable.' This use excuses or explains a reaction rather than judging whether it can be comprehended.