understandable

UK: ˌʌndəˈstændəbl | US: ˌʌndərˈstændəbl

Definition

  1. adj. capable of being understood; clear or comprehensible

  2. adj. reasonable or justifiable in nature

Structure
under <below>stand <to be upright>able <capable of>
Etymology

The word "understandable" combines three morphemes:

  1. "under" (from Old English under, meaning "beneath" or "below")
  2. "stand" (from Old English standan, meaning "to be upright" or "to occupy a position")
  3. "able" (from Latin -abilis, via Old French, indicating capability)

Originally, "understand" (Old English understandan) implied standing beneath or among something to grasp its meaning. Over time, it evolved to mean "comprehend." The suffix "-able" was later added to form the adjective, signifying "capable of being understood."

Examples

  1. Her explanation was clear and understandable.

  2. It's understandable that he was upset after the news.

  3. The instructions are written in an understandable way.

  4. His frustration is understandable given the circumstances.

  5. The teacher made the complex topic understandable for the students.