What does understandably mean?
Understandably is an adverb that explains a feeling, reaction, or decision as reasonable because its cause is obvious. It is commonly used before a description of someone's state, as in “understandably nervous,” or parenthetically at the start of a sentence: “Understandably, she declined.” In this common use, it means “as would be expected,” not merely that the words can be understood. The word therefore carries a mild sympathetic or explanatory tone: it recognizes a response while suggesting that another person might respond in the same way. Understandably can also mean “in a manner that can be understood,” especially when discussing the clarity of an explanation, although that is less central in everyday use. It is neutral in register and common in journalism, discussion, and formal writing. Its usefulness lies in efficiently conveying both reasonableness and shared human judgment without sounding dismissive.
adverbIn a way that can be understood or accepted; commonly, as would naturally be expected.
- As would naturally be expected, especially of a feeling, reaction, or decision whose cause makes it reasonable.
"Understandably, she was nervous about the interview."
"The delay was understandably frustrating for passengers."
"Understandably, the council reconsidered its proposal after receiving objections."
The useful word for saying, “Of course you'd feel that way—anyone would.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of understandably
Understandably is an English adverb formed from understandable by the standard adverbial suffix -ly. Understandable in turn derives from understand, an Old English compound associated with the elements under and stand, originally conveying a sense of standing under or among something and later developing the meaning of comprehending it. The adverb's common sense of “as would be expected” reflects the idea that a reaction is reasonable when its cause is readily apparent.
How understandably is actually used
This is a neutral, widely used adverb. It commonly modifies an adjective or noun describing a person's reaction, as in “understandably anxious,” or stands parenthetically before a clause: “Understandably, he declined.” In its dominant use, it implies that the reaction is reasonable rather than merely that it can be understood.
Easily confused with understandably
Understandably is the adverb modifying a verb, adjective, or clause, whereas understandable is the adjective describing something that can be understood.