Where somebody is coming from

phrase

To understand or comprehend someone's viewpoint or feelings.

After hearing his explanation, I can now understand where he's coming from.

Often appears as...

i see where you're coming from
understand where he's coming from

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

To ask about someone's background or origin.

With her unique accent, I was curious to know where she's coming from.

Often appears as...

ask where he's coming from
wonder where they're coming from

phrase

To understand or comprehend someone's viewpoint or feelings.

After hearing his explanation, I can now understand where he's coming from.

Often appears as...

i see where you're coming from
understand where he's coming from

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

To ask about someone's background or origin.

With her unique accent, I was curious to know where she's coming from.

Often appears as...

ask where he's coming from
wonder where they're coming from

Definition 1 of 2

Visual representation of "where somebody is coming from"

Pro Tip 1/3

Empathy Indicator

This phrase is often used to signal empathy and show you’re trying to understand someone's feelings or opinions.

I may not agree, but I do see where you're coming from.

Pro Tip 2/3

Conflict Resolution

Use this phrase during disagreements to de-escalate tension by acknowledging the other person's perspective.

We have different opinions on this matter, but I understand where you're coming from.

Pro Tip 3/3

Not Agreement

Acknowledging where someone is coming from doesn't necessarily mean you agree with them.

I see where you're coming from, although I have reservations.

Pro Tip 1/3

Empathy Indicator

This phrase is often used to signal empathy and show you’re trying to understand someone's feelings or opinions.

I may not agree, but I do see where you're coming from.

Pro Tip 2/3

Conflict Resolution

Use this phrase during disagreements to de-escalate tension by acknowledging the other person's perspective.

We have different opinions on this matter, but I understand where you're coming from.

Pro Tip 3/3

Not Agreement

Acknowledging where someone is coming from doesn't necessarily mean you agree with them.

I see where you're coming from, although I have reservations.

Pro Tip 1/3

Empathy Indicator

This phrase is often used to signal empathy and show you’re trying to understand someone's feelings or opinions.

I may not agree, but I do see where you're coming from.

Pro Tip 2/3

Conflict Resolution

Use this phrase during disagreements to de-escalate tension by acknowledging the other person's perspective.

We have different opinions on this matter, but I understand where you're coming from.

Pro Tip 3/3

Not Agreement

Acknowledging where someone is coming from doesn't necessarily mean you agree with them.

I see where you're coming from, although I have reservations.

Visual representation of the word "Where somebody is coming from"

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