Definition of "know" in Englisch

verb

1. (transitive) To perceive the truth or factuality of; to be certain of; to be certain that.

   • I know that I’m right and you’re wrong.
   • He knew something terrible was going to happen.

2. (intransitive) To be or become aware or cognizant.

   • Did you know Michelle and Jack were getting divorced? ― Yes, I knew.
   • Malware's sometimes been known to sit dormant for a long time.

3. (transitive) To be aware of; to be cognizant of.

   • Did you know Michelle and Jack were getting divorced? ― Yes, I knew.
   • She knows where I live.
   • I knew he was upset, but I didn't understand why.

4. (intransitive, obsolete) To be acquainted (with another person).

5. (transitive) To be acquainted or familiar with; to have encountered.

   • I know your mother, but I've never met your father.
   • Borja, do you know Pilar? - Sure, we've actually met before.
   • Marsha is my roommate. — I know Marsha. She is nice.

6. (transitive) To experience.

   • Their relationship knew ups and downs.

7. To understand or have a grasp of through experience or study.

   • Let me do it. I know how it works.
   • She knows how to swim.
   • His mother tongue is Italian, but he also knows French and English.
   • She knows chemistry better than anybody else.
   • Know your enemy and know yourself.

8. (transitive) To be able to distinguish, to discern, particularly by contrast or comparison; to recognize the nature of.

   • to know a person's face or figure
   • to know right from wrong
   • I wouldn't know one from the other.
   • Flares do not know friend from foe and so illuminate both. Changes in wind direction can result in flare exposure of the attacker while defenders hide in the shadows.

9. (transitive) To recognize as the same (as someone or something previously encountered) after an absence or change.

10. (intransitive) To have knowledge; to have information, be informed.

    • It is vital that he not know.
    • She knew of our plan.
    • He knows about 19th century politics.
    • Marsha knows.

11. (transitive) To be able to play or perform (a song or other piece of music).