Comprehensive vs Comprehensible: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
Comprehensive" means extensive, while "comprehensible" is used to mean understandable.
Memory Tip: comprehensive = covers everything, comprehensible = easy to understand
comprehensive stress on 'hen', comprehensible stress on 'hen'
comprehensive
adjectiveThe term "comprehensive" describes something that is thorough and all-encompassing, covering all or nearly all elements or aspects of a particular subject.
Example:
The university has developed a comprehensive curriculum that covers not only the theoretical aspects of environmental science but also practical applications and interdisciplinary approaches.
Common patterns:
comprehensive report
comprehensive study
comprehensive approach
comprehensible /ˌkɒmprɪˈhɛnsɪbəl/
adjectiveAble to be understood or grasped by the mind.
Example:
The professor's lecture on quantum physics was surprisingly comprehensible, even for those without a background in science, thanks to her ability to simplify complex concepts.
Common patterns:
easily comprehensible
comprehensible language
comprehensible format
Common Mistakes
The teacher provided a comprehensible overview of the entire course material.
The teacher provided a comprehensive overview of the entire course material.
The word 'comprehensive' is correct because it means the overview covered all or nearly all aspects of the course.
The instructions were comprehensive and easy to follow.
The instructions were comprehensible and easy to follow.
The word 'comprehensible' is correct because it means the instructions were easy to understand.
Quick Practice
0/2 correct1. The university has developed a ____ curriculum that covers not only the theoretical aspects of environmental science but also practical applications and interdisciplinary approaches.
2. The professor's lecture on quantum physics was surprisingly ____, even for those without a background in science, thanks to her ability to simplify complex concepts.
Other Confusing Words
Never confuse comprehensive / comprehensible again
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