I can't understand vs I don't understand

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'I can't understand' is often used when someone is struggling to comprehend something due to difficulty or inability. On the other hand, 'I don't understand' is a more general statement indicating a lack of comprehension without specifying a reason.

Last updated: March 22, 2024 • 1170 views

I can't understand

This phrase is correct and commonly used when expressing difficulty or inability to comprehend something.

This phrase is used when someone is facing challenges in understanding something due to complexity, language barriers, or other reasons beyond their control.

Examples:

I can't understand why the math problem is so difficult.
I can't understand what she is saying because of the poor audio quality.

Show examples from the web [+]

I can't understand why that girl is so late.
I can't understand how you stayed with him so long.
How could I, I can't understand it.
I hear, but I can't understand what it is.
Well, maybe I can't understand.
I can't understand this at all.
I can't understand Paul's actions.
I can't understand Madame's behavior.
I can't understand how Bilis was able to show you that vision.
Lee, I can't understand you.
I can't understand why Tommy wants to marry you.
I can't understand how this thief can imitate me so perfectly.
I can't understand, something smells good.
I can't understand how you can prefer her to me.
Then I can't understand why he slugged us both.
I can't understand why... you're ruining everything... after so much progress.
I can't understand your French.
The thing I can't understand is why you drugged O'Connor.
I can't understand the way it works between you two.
I can't understand why they couldn't pick someone with more experience.

Alternatives:

I'm having trouble understanding
I'm struggling to understand

I don't understand

This phrase is correct and commonly used to express a general lack of comprehension without specifying a reason.

This phrase is used to indicate a simple lack of understanding without delving into the specific reasons behind it.

Examples:

I don't understand the instructions for this game.
I don't understand why she is upset.

Show examples from the web [+]

I don't understand Chinese, but I want to learn.
I'm sorry, but I don't understand English well.
I don't understand why I'm even staying.
Moral ambiguity are televisions shows in which I don't understand the difference between right and wrong.
I don't understand, I'm foreign.
I don't understand what I did to make you hate me so much.
I don't understand why I'm even staying.
I can read, but I don't understand numbers.
Why should I? I don't understand...
I tell you what I don't understand.
I don't understand why I have to start the scene in the shower.
I just... I don't understand why you find the topic of death objectionable.
What I don't understand is why I need to know this stuff.
I don't understand, I filled the tank this morning.
I ask questions when I don't understand something.
I don't understand why I have to stay here and answer questions.
I'm sorry, I don't understand your relationship here.
I guess maybe I don't understand art.
I don't understand why I feel so comfortable with you.
I don't understand because of how hardened I am.

Alternatives:

I'm confused
I'm not following

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I can't understand vs I don't understand