What Does “Understand Doing Something” Mean?
In English, the verb “understand” is usually followed by a that-clause or a noun phrase. However, it is not commonly used with a gerund (the -ing form of a verb used as a noun).
For example, we say:
I understand that he left early.She understands the importance of practice.
But you will rarely hear:
❌ I understand leaving early.(unnatural in most contexts)
When Can You Use “Understand + Gerund”?
There are very limited cases where “understand + gerund” might appear, usually in philosophical or abstract contexts. Even then, it often sounds awkward or overly formal.
Example (rare and stylistic):
He finally understood forgiving others.
In everyday English, it’s clearer and more natural to rephrase using a that-clause or a noun:
He finally understood that forgiving others is important.He finally understood the value of forgiveness.
Key Takeaway
Stick to standard patterns:
understand + that-clauseunderstand + noun / noun phraseunderstand + question word (e.g., why, how)
Avoid understand + gerund unless you’re writing poetry or highly abstract prose—and even then, consider alternatives.