be understanding

/biː ʌndərˈstændɪŋ/
show empathy and patience

She asked him to be understanding when she explained her situation.

She wanted him to listen with empathy and patience.


informal

to show empathy, patience, and tolerance toward others' feelings or situations

Be understanding when your friend is going through a tough time.

Show patience and empathy when someone is struggling.

He wasn't very understanding about her delay.

He didn't show much patience or empathy when she was late.

Often used to encourage compassionate listening and acceptance of others' perspectives.

Collocations

be understanding ofto accept or tolerate somethingbe more understandingto show greater empathy

Related Phrases

understand someone's point of viewphrase
to grasp another's perspective
be understanding of someone's feelingsphrase
to acknowledge and respect emotions

Pro Tip

Use in advice

This phrase is often used when giving advice to others about how to respond to difficult situations.

Gold Rule

Context matters

Use this phrase when someone needs to show patience or empathy, not when giving instructions.

Word Origin

Derived from the verb 'understand' (Old English 'understandan') with the suffix '-ing' to form a continuous state.

Usage Notes

Commonly used in interpersonal communication to encourage compassion and active listening.

Word Breakdown

be
to exist in a state
verb
+
understanding
the act of comprehending with empathy
gerund
English Dictionary