ENGLISH
REFERENCE

understandable

adj.
US //ˌəndɝˈstændəbəɫ// UK //ˌʌndəstˈændəbəl// un·der·stand·able
  1. 1 clear and easy to follow (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    easy to understand or follow because it is clear.

    capable of being comprehended; intelligible and clear in presentation or logic.

    Example

    The instructions were written in simple language, making them understandable for everyone.

    Example

    The lecturer broke down the complex physics theories into understandable segments for the first-year students.

    Usage

    Often used with 'to' to indicate the audience, as in 'understandable to beginners'.

  2. 2 reasonable or excusable (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    natural or normal to feel or do in a certain situation.

    capable of being accepted or excused based on the prevailing circumstances or human nature.

    Example

    His anger was understandable after his bike was stolen.

    Example

    Given the severity of the storm, the pilot's decision to divert the flight was entirely understandable.

    Teacher's tip

    In this sense, the word often describes a reaction or emotion rather than a piece of information.

Origin

From Middle English understondable, equivalent to understand + -able.

Word family

© 2026 English Reference