know where someone is coming from

know where (one) is coming from

To understand or relate to one's motivation or reason for doing something or having a particular position or opinion. Look, I know where you're coming from—and I kind of agree with you—but rules are rules, and we can't just ignore them whenever we want. Make sure you explain your situation clearly so that everyone knows where you are coming from.

See also: coming, know

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

know where someone is coming from

tv. to understand someone’s motivation; to understand and relate to someone’s position. I know where you’re coming from. I’ve been there.

See also: coming, know, someone

McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions Copyright © 2006 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.