comprendre
/kɔ̃.pʁɑ̃dʁ/
Definition
To understand something, or to include something as part of a whole.
Example
Je ne comprends pas cette question difficile.
Show translation
I don't understand this difficult question.
Etymology
From Latin *comprehendere* ("to grasp, seize"), composed of *com-* (together) + *prehendere* (to take hold of). The same Latin root gives English "comprehend" and "apprehend," making it one of the more transparent French–English cognates.
Cultural note
French speakers often soften the sting of non-comprehension with the phrase *"Je ne comprends pas bien"* (I don't quite understand) rather than a blunt denial — a reflection of the cultural value placed on politeness in communication. In Québécois French you may hear *"Je comprends!"* used as an enthusiastic affirmation, roughly equivalent to "I totally get it!" or even just "Exactly!"