collocation · neutral
mutual understanding
UK/ˈmjuːtʃuəl ˌʌndəˈstændɪŋ/US/ˈmjuːtʃuəl ˌʌndərˈstændɪŋ/MU·tu·al un·der·STAND·ing
a shared understanding between people about feelings or opinions
Examples
“After a long talk they finally reached a mutual understanding.”
“Mutual understanding is essential for resolving conflicts in a marriage.”
“Teachers and parents need a mutual understanding about school rules.”
Band 8 sentence
“A strong mutual understanding allows couples to navigate disagreements without escalating into serious conflicts.”
Collocations
- reach a mutual understanding
- lack mutual understanding
- build mutual understanding
Word family
Common mistakes
mutual understand→mutual understanding
understanding mutual→mutual understanding
Say it for a higher band
5understand each other→6understand each other mutually→7+mutual understanding
Synonyms
reciprocal understanding
Easily confused
mutual agreement
“They reached a mutual agreement after hours of negotiation.”
Related words
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In Family & Relationships
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