understanding-n; 5 Senses

Sense Number 1: a cognitive state of comprehension of something

Commentary: UNDERSTANDING[+state][+cognitive][+comprehension][+of_subject]
NOTE: implies a specific subject or knowledge domain that is understood by an agent.

Examples:
Her understanding of Russian is excellent.
The students displayed little understanding of the material on their exams.
Bob admitted his understanding of quantum mechanics was pretty shaky.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 2: the general capacity for rational thought

Commentary: UNDERSTANDING[+quality][+capability][+of_thought][+rational]
NOTE: refers to a general capacity of an agent to carry out reasoning or rational thought - not mastery of a specific content of information (Sense 1)

Examples:
Johnny is a child of sufficient intelligence and understanding to know better.
Will computers ever develop true understanding and reasoning capabilities?

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 4

Sense Number 3: an agreement between parties

Commentary: UNDERSTANDING[+state][+social][+agreement][+informal]
NOTE: implies a reciprocal agreement between people about something

Examples:
I thought we had an understanding about no smoking in the house.
He was allowed to come only on the understanding that he would be on his best behavior.
We reached the understanding that we would agree to disagree about it.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 2

Sense Number 4: a sympathetic inclination

Commentary: UNDERSTANDING[+quality][+inclination][+sympathetic] [+state][+emotional][+empathy]

Examples:
We thanked them for their kindness and understanding during our family crisis.
It's a delicate situation that needs to be handled with some patience and understanding.
John blurted out the joke without any understanding for Mary's feelings.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 3

Sense Number 5: an interpretation or explanation

Commentary: UNDERSTANDING[+state][+cognitive][+belief][+interpretation]
NOTE: refers to an agent's belief, conclusion, interpretation of events

Examples:
My understanding was that he is planning to move out on the 30th.
Was it your understanding that the president was opposed to this new policy?

Mappings:
WordNet 0.0 Sense Numbers: 4