Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

first-hand understanding

phrase
/fɜrst hᵻnd ˌʌndərˈstændɪŋ/
Definition
A direct and personal comprehension of a situation or experience gained through personal involvement.
Examples
  • After traveling to the country, she gained a first-hand understanding of its culture.
  • The report was insightful, but it lacked a first-hand understanding of the community’s needs.
Meaning
To have knowledge of something based on one’s own experiences rather than from others’ descriptions.
Synonyms
  • personal experience
  • direct insight
  • first-hand knowledge
  • first-hand experience