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Whatchadoin Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

Haven't/didn't

Let's say someone just explained something. And I say:

- I didn't understand. Could you explain one more time, please?
- I haven't understood. Could you explain one more time, please?

Which one is better? / Which one would be better? (Which one is better here?) Emotion: thinking

Thanks.
  

Top answer

Perhaps it depends on the situation. "I didn't understand" is more direct and more common. If you reply, "I haven't understood," it tends to sound a bit high-register, unless you're actually in a formal situation, such as a debate or an advanced college English class.

— Avangi

  • Perhaps it depends on the situation.
  • "I didn't understand" is more direct and more common.
  • If you reply, "I haven't understood," it tends to sound a bit high-register, unless you're actually in a formal situation, such as a debate or an advanced college English class.
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2 Answers
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Perhaps it depends on the situation.
"I didn't understand" is more direct and more common.

If you reply, "I haven't understood," it tends to sound a bit high-register, unless you're actually in a formal situation, such as a debate or an advanced college English class.
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Hi

Sorry, I don't understand is natural and very, very common.

Clive
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