Yes, it is possible to understand something that is not explicitly known or stated. In many situations, our understanding goes beyond explicit information and relies on inference, context, and prior knowledge.
Inference: We can infer information based on clues, context, and patterns. For example, when reading a story, we may infer a character's emotions or motivations even if they are not explicitly mentioned.
Context: Understanding often relies on the context in which the information is presented. By considering the surrounding information, we can fill in the gaps and grasp the intended meaning.
Prior Knowledge: Our existing knowledge and experiences play a significant role in understanding new information. When we encounter something unfamiliar, we often relate it to what we already know to make sense of it.
Nonverbal Communication: In face-to-face interactions, a significant part of communication happens through nonverbal cues like body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions. Understanding these nonverbal cues helps in comprehending the full meaning of a conversation.
Unconscious Processing: Our brains engage in unconscious processing that helps us understand the world around us. We may not be explicitly aware of all the mental processes that lead to understanding, but they happen nonetheless.
Art and Literature: Art forms like paintings, poetry, and abstract literature can convey complex emotions and ideas that may not be explicitly spelled out but can still be understood and appreciated by the audience.
Problem Solving: In problem-solving, we often arrive at solutions that were not initially known to us. Our brains work through the available information to find creative and innovative solutions.
Intuition: Intuition is a form of understanding that occurs without conscious reasoning. It's a gut feeling or an instinctive comprehension of a situation.
Understanding something that is not explicitly known is a common and essential aspect of human cognition. It allows us to navigate the complexities of the world and make sense of the vast amount of information we encounter daily. Our ability to understand implicitly is what enables us to communicate effectively, learn from experiences, and make informed decisions.