know1 verbknow2 noun
knowknow1 /nəʊ $ noʊ/ ●●● S1 W1 verb (past tense knew /njuː $ nuː/, past participle known /nəʊn $ noʊn/) 
WORD ORIGINknow1
Origin:
Old English cnawanVERB TABLE
know
| Simple Form | ||
| Present | I, you, we, they | know |
| he, she, it | knows | |
| Past | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | knew |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have known |
| he, she, it | has known | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had known |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will know |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have known |
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- "Are you going home for Christmas?" "I don't know yet."
- "Do you know Boston at all?" "Yes, I went to college there."
- Although we worked for him for years, Cathy was the only one who knew him well.
- As soon as the phone rang, we knew something terrible must have happened.
- Ask Eric about your brakes - he knows cars.
- Carol doesn't know the city very well yet.
- Do you know any Polish?
- Do you know anyone who can repair a boiler?
- Do you know that Hitchcock movie about a man who is being chased?
- Do you know where Andy is?
- Do you two know each other?
- Everyone knew immediately how serious the situation was.
- Everyone who knew her described her as a kind, generous person.
- He knew a lot about baseball, and about how to pick great players.
- How much do you know about the Moore case?
- I knew he was ill, but I didn't realize he had cancer.
- I asked several people where Paul was, but no one knew.
- I didn't know any of the songs they were singing.
- I don't know anything about football.
- I just know your mother will love this necklace.
THESAURUS
adjective believing that something is definitely true or correct: · I’m sure that you’re right.· ‘The car was a BMW.’ ‘Are you sure?’· I’m not sure what the best thing to do is.
adjective completely sure. Certain is more formal than sure, and it is very commonly used in writing: · The police were certain that they had found the killer.· I think he’s married, but I’m not certain about it.
adjective sure that something is true, even though you cannot prove it: · She became convinced that her boyfriend was seeing someone else.· Brown’s wife was convinced of his innocence.
adjective especially spoken completely sure that something is true, especially when other people are not sure: · She said she was positive that the exam was next Tuesday.· I’m absolutely positive I haven’t made a mistake.
adjective sure that you know the truth about something that has happened, because you have enough information: · The authorities are now satisfied that her death was an accident.
adjective sure that something good will happen or that you will achieve something: · Doctors are confident that he’ll make a full recovery.· A spokesman said the government was confident of winning the vote.
(also be in no doubt) v phrase to have no doubts in your mind about something: · I have no doubt that his story is true.· He was in no doubt about what he should do next.
verb to have a strong feeling that something is true or correct: · I just know that she will love this necklace.· When the phone rang, we knew something terrible must have happened.
to recognize someone or something. Know is often used in everyday English instead of recognize: · How do you know that it is real gold?· I know him from somewhere.· I can’t remember his name, but I know his face.
to be able to recognize someone or something: · I could tell that it was him by his voice.· Can you tell that it’s not real leather?· It’s difficult to be able to tell them apart (=to recognize that they are different).
Longman Language Activatorto know a fact or piece of information to know a fact or piece of information: · I love this painting - do you know the name of the artist?· Jack's leaving. Didn't you know?know (that): · I knew he was ill, but I didn't realize he had cancer.know how/what/where etc: · Do you know where Andy is?know about: · How much do you know about the Moore case?know of: · I know of one company where members of staff get their meals free.know a lot about: · He knew a lot about baseball, and about how to pick great players.
also realise British to know that a situation exists, and especially to know how important or serious it is: · None of us realized the danger we were in.· "She's been promoted to chief executive." "Oh, really? I didn't realize."realize (that): · I realize that you are very busy, but could I talk to you for a few minutes?realize how/what/why: · Even Horton's family hadn't realized how sick he was, both physically and emotionally.
formal to know or begin to realize that a situation exists, often a serious one: be/become aware of: · I am aware of the risks involved in the project, but I am willing to take them.· Children become aware of rules during this stage of development.be/become aware (that): · The question is, was the Chief of Police aware that so much corruption existed within the police department?well/acutely/keenly aware (=used to emphasize that someone definitely knows something): · There were signs everywhere - the two men must have been well aware that they were hunting out of season.painfully aware (=aware of something that upsets you): · Abbey was always painfully aware that she was not as pretty as her sister.
especially spoken to know that something is true because you can see signs that show this: · She's going to have a baby - couldn't you tell?can tell (that): · I could tell he worked outdoors, because he had a deep tan.can tell by/from: · You can tell by the look on her face that she's hiding something.can tell whether/what/how etc: · You can tell when kids aren't feeling well.· I couldn't tell exactly how old he was.from what I can tell...: · Don't worry. From what I can tell, you'll make a great father.
to understand how serious a situation or problem is: · I wonder if he really appreciates the seriousness of the situation.appreciate how/what/why: · Changes were taking place, though at the time no one fully appreciated how far-reaching these changes were to be.appreciate (that): · I appreciate that some of you have had to wait all night, and I thank you for your patience.
to know that a particular situation exists and to have it in your mind continuously: be conscious of: · I was very conscious of the fact that this was an important meeting and that I had to make a good impression.· As oil prices rose, countries in the West suddenly became conscious of fuel efficiency. be conscious (that): · He was conscious that she was staring at him as he spoke.
spoken use this to say that someone knows something, although they behave as if they do not: know perfectly well (that): · He knows perfectly well, he's not allowed to park outside the main door.· I knew perfectly well that I had anorexia, but I wouldn't admit that it was a problem.know perfectly well what/why/who etc: · You know perfectly well what I mean, so stop pretending you don't.
to know what is likely to happen in a particular situation, because you have learned from your own experiences: know/learn from experience (that): · He knew from experience that most ship's captains were not adequately covered with life insurance. know from past/personal/first-hand etc experience: · Kelly knew from personal experience that education is a ticket out of minimum-wage work.know from bitter experience (=know something because of a bad experience of something similar): · Sue learned from bitter experience not to rely on Martin in times of crisis.
to know a place, a film, a book etc if you know a place, you have been there before and spent time there; if you know a book, song, film etc, you have read it or seen it or heard it before: · "Do you know Boston at all?" "Yes, I went to college there."· I didn't know any of the songs they were singing.· Do you know that Hitchcock movie about a man who is being chased?know something by heart (=know every word of a song, poem etc without having to read it): · The congregation seemed to know all the hymns by heart.know somewhere like the back of your hand informal (=know a place very well): · Tony had spent a lot of time in Tokyo and knew the place like the back of his hand.
to know a thing or place well because you have seen it, read it, used it, or been there: · Are you familiar with this type of software?· I grew up near Lake George, so I'm very familiar with the towns around there.· Are you familiar with the works of George Eliot?
formal to know something: · I was not acquainted with the north-western part of the island.· Through art, children become acquainted with cultures other than their own.be fully acquainted with: · All our employees are fully acquainted with the safety procedures.
to know a lot about something · My brother knows about cars. I'm sure he could fix it for you.· You can't become an architect unless you know all about building regulations.know a lot about something · The old man knew a lot about the history of the village.know all there is to know about something (=to know everything about a particular subject) · I thought I knew all there was to know about men, until I met Jason.
knowing a lot of facts about a particular subject, especially about something that not many people know about: · The sales staff are all knowledgeable, helpful, and cheerful.knowledgeable about/in: · We are looking for people who are knowledgeable about the oil and banking industries.· Earley is a diligent reporter, knowledgeable in the field of espionage.
to know a lot about a particular subject because you have had a lot of experience of it: · The new prime minister is well versed in economic policy.· Victor Amadeus was reputed to be well versed in poisons and their antidotes.
informal to know a particular subject very thoroughly: · She's very experienced -- she knows the advertising business inside out.· You need to know your specialized subject inside and out.
British informal to know all the facts that you need to know about a subject, especially because you have found it out before you start doing something: be clued up on: · Are you clued up on what points to look for when buying a used car?be clued up about: · We'd better get clued up about this new computer system before we start using it.
also specialise British to know a lot about one particular subject or activity because you study it or do it more than any other: · My history professor specialized in Russian history.· The chef specializes in Hunan and Szechuan cuisine, but all the dishes we tried were delicious.
informal to know a lot about a particular subject so that your judgement can be trusted, especially because you have had a lot of experience: · Pilger knows what he is talking about, having spent several years as a reporter in Vietnam.· Rolim seemed to know what he was talking about, but his theories raised some questions for me.
informal to know a lot about something, especially about how to do your job, in a way that other people think is impressive: · To pass that test the kids really have to know their stuff.· The doctor who came in looked very young. I was just hoping she knew her stuff.
someone who knows a lot about something someone who know a lot about a subject: · The team of experts includes psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers.expert in/on: · an expert in French history· A draft of the document was reviewed by experts on hospital infection control.medical/legal/financial etc expert: · Legal experts are saying that the man's conviction was unlawful.
someone who has studied a particular subject for a long time and knows much more about it than other people: · You really need a specialist for this job.specialist in: · Professor Williams teaches English Literature and is a specialist in the novels of George Orwell.computer/marketing/engine etc specialist: · The Health Department is seeking the advice of a team of tropical disease specialists.
someone whose knowledge and opinions on a particular subject are greatly respected: authority on: · Reischauer became an authority on Japanese-American relations.· She was widely regarded as the country's leading authority on plant diseases.
someone who knows a lot about a subject, especially politics or economics, and who is asked to give their opinion about it on television, in newspapers etc: · If the pundits are right, the economic situation may become worse before the end of the year.· Hollywood pundits predicted the movie would grab the top spot in the ratings, but they were wrong.
someone who knows a lot about a particular activity or subject because they are very interested in it: film/jazz/computer etc buff: · "How many films did Hitchcock make?" "Ask Paul, -- he's a great film buff."· The market for magazines for computer buffs is growing all the time.
someone who has great knowledge and experience of something such as art, furniture, food, or wine so that they can recognize what is the best: · The golden chanterelle, as it is commonly known, is a favorite among mushroom connoisseurs.connoisseur of: · Lord Burlington was a great collector and connoisseur of paintings.
informal British someone who knows a lot about a particular subject, especially a scientific or technical subject: · A few science boffins were asked for their opinions, but otherwise the article gave very little information.
knowing a lot about something someone who is knowledgeable knows a lot of different facts, especially about a particular subject or activity: · Visitors should use reputable travel firms with knowledgeable guides, and avoid camping alone.knowledgeable about/in: · Gradually the band became more knowledgeable about the business dealings in the music industry.
knowing a lot about what is happening, especially about what is happening in the world: · "Le Monde' is a newspaper designed for well-informed readers.· According to one well-informed source, the two sides are very near to reaching an agreement.well-informed about: · Abdul Karim was particularly well- informed about American politics.
to know a lot about a particular subject or about various subjects, so that you are usually able to answer anything that people ask you: · The British Ambassador proved to be a mine of information on the subject of the Royal Family.
British /be up on American spoken to know a lot about something, including the most recent information: · How well up are you on men's fashion?· Don't ask me - I'm not really up on current events in that part of the world.
to always know what changes and developments are happening in a particular situation or organization: have your finger on the pulse of: · As a manager of a bookshop, I have to have my finger on the pulse of the publishing industry.
to make sure that you know all the most recent news about what is happening somewhere or about new developments in a particular subject: · When we lived abroad, we always kept abreast of what was happening at home.· It's very important for students to keep up to date with developments in their own field of study.
to know something so well you can repeat it from memory also know something off by heart British to know every word of a poem, story, song etc, that you have learned so that you can say it or sing it without making any mistakes: · Eleanor had heard the story so many times that she knew every word of it by heart.· I studied the poem until I knew it off by heart.
British /have something down pat American to be able to give a speech or an answer immediately and easily because you have learned it thoroughly or because you have said the same thing a lot of times before: · She only had to repeat the lines once or twice, and she'd have them down pat.· Like most politicians he had all his answers off pat, but he didn't have anything particularly new or interesting to say.
able to repeat something from memory in exactly the same way as it was said or written: · Each Monday the teacher made us recite a poem which had to be word perfect .
to know a little about something also know a bit about especially British · This excellent book can be understood by anyone who knows a little about social anthropology.· I know a bit about how psychiatry works, having been in therapy for years.
to have only a small amount of knowledge about a subject, especially of a foreign language: · He only has a smattering of English, so it can be quite difficult trying to communicate with him.· I left school with no more than a smattering of scientific knowledge.
to have enough knowledge of something such as a system or a foreign language to be able to use it, although your knowledge is limited: · You don't need to be an expert, but we do expect you to have a good working knowledge of computers.· For the system to work, mediators must have a working knowledge of the law.
spoken to know just enough about something, for example a foreign language, to be able to make yourself understood or do something successfully: · My Spanish isn't great, but I can get by as a tourist.can get by/be able to get by on/with: · "Can I still pass the course?" "You may be able to get by on what you've already read."
to know something that most people do not know to know secret information about something, for example a government plan or someone's private life, that only a small group of people know: · I heard it from someone who's in the know, so it must be true.· Those who were in the know bought land where the railway was to be built, and made enormous profits.· The people in the know are saying that the team doesn't have enough money to keep Wojek for another season.
informal to know about a secret plan or activity that only a small group of people know about, especially when you are involved in it: · The children are planning a surprise for Grandma. Are you in on this?· It turned out that some of the local cops were in on the deal too.let somebody in on something (=tell them about a secret): · We made the mistake of letting my sister in on the plan, and she, of course, told my parents.
especially written to know about something that is kept a secret from most people, especially because someone trusts you enough to tell you about it: · She became a confidante of Churchill, and thus was privy to some of his thinking.· The Division was not privy to all the information being collected in Saigon.
: knowing look/smile/wink etc a look, smile etc that shows that you know something that other people do not know or that you share a secret with someone: · I saw him give her a knowing smile as she left the room.· Her questions and knowing looks unnerved him, almost as if she had figured him out.
when most people know something especially spoken say this when you think most people know something and you would be surprised if someone did not know it: · Haven't you heard Anja's pregnant? I thought everyone knew.everyone knows (that): · Everyone knows that for a democracy to truly work, everyone has to get involved in some way.everyone knows how/what/why etc: · Surely everyone knows how to change a light bulb!
use this about facts and ideas that most people know about, or that all the people in a particular group know about: · Her views on the single European currency were well known.it is well known that: · It is well known that people who smoke are more likely to get lung diseases.· It was well known that Mr. Walters was interested in our mother.
if information about someone is common knowledge , a lot of people know about it, even when that person would prefer to keep it a secret: · It's common knowledge here in Miami that this whole operation was paid for with cocaine money.be common knowledge that: · It's already common knowledge that their marriage is breaking up.
if an unpleasant fact is no secret , everyone knows about it: · Everyone knows they hate each other, it's no secret.be no secret that: · It was no secret that Morrison was with the CIA, but nobody knew exactly what he did.
if something is an open secret , it is supposed to be secret but most people know about it: · Her relationship with a French millionaire is pretty much an open secret around here.be an open secret that: · It's an open secret that organized crime has been financing films here for years.
when a government allows people to know what is in official government records, documents etc: · Freedom of information should be a basic right in a democracy.
facts and information that you know facts and information that you know: · He doesn't have the skills or knowledge needed to do the job.knowledge of: · My knowledge of Japanese is limited to a few phrases.scientific/medical/technical etc knowledge: · Our assumptions are based on current scientific knowledge.
special knowledge about how to do something, gained through study or practical experience: · The technical expertise was provided by a Japanese company.· His expertise will be invaluable to understanding technological challenges the BBC is facing. expertise in: · The organisation has employees with expertise in both medical and counselling services.
practical knowledge about how to do something: · There was a lack of managerial and technical know-how in the steel industry.· The US supplied the machinery, the know-how, and most of the capital.
to feel sure something is true even though you have no proof · I felt a definite sense of danger and impending disaster.feel (that) · I always felt I had the ability to become a reasonable actor.· It is a common experience to feel that an author writes well without being able to say exactly why.
to feel that something is present or is happening where you are although you cannot see or hear anything to prove it: · We could sense an unwelcoming atmosphere.· I wasn't that thrilled with her performance, and I'm sure she sensed it.sense (that): · After a while, I sensed that he was no longer listening.
to feel very strongly that something is true: · Everyone knew immediately how serious the situation was.know (that): · I knew that this was going to happen.· I know damn well she won't keep her promise.just know: · I knew it was a huge gamble, buying the stuff without seeing it, but I just knew it would be good quality.
to feel almost sure that something is true, although you have no proof: have a feeling/get the feeling (that): · As we walked along together, I had a feeling that we were both thinking the same thing.· Maybe we should leave him alone. I have a feeling he doesn't want us here.
to know how someone is feeling or how a situation is changing although there are no clear signs to prove it, especially in a way that worries you: be aware/conscious of: · Charles was uncomfortably aware of the woman's silent contempt for him.be aware/conscious that: · Slowly, she became conscious that there was some connection between the man and the girl.
to not know a fact or piece of information · "What time's the next train to Paris?" "I'm sorry, I don't know."· I wish I could tell you the name of the restaurant but I honestly don't know it.not know anything about · These days, record companies are usually owned by people who don't know anything about music.not know how/what/why etc · I don't know why it is so difficult to explain the concept to people.· No one knows if there really is a Loch Ness monster, or if it's just a myth.not know (that) · My mother never knew that they'd called the police out that night.
especially spoken say this when you know nothing at all about the answer to a question, so that you cannot even guess what it might be: · "How much is this painting worth?" "I'm sorry, I've no idea."· When I asked where Louise had gone, he said he didn't have a clue.have no idea/not have a clue what/how/who etc: · That guy obviously doesn't have a clue how to put a Web page together.· I fell asleep half way through the film, and I have absolutely no idea how it ended.
also not have the least idea British spoken say this when you want to say very strongly that you know nothing at all: · "Do you know where he was going after he left here?" "I don't have the slightest idea."not have the faintest/slightest/foggiest idea what/how/where etc: · I don't have the faintest idea what you're talking about -- can you explain please?· Nobody at that time had the slightest idea about how caffeine affected the body.not have the faintest/slightest/foggiest idea about: · They didn't have the least idea about how to put up a tent.
spoken say this when you do not know and cannot understand why something happens: · "What I can't understand is why they make you wait three months just to give you a stamp on your passport." "Beats me too."(it) beats me how/why etc: · It beats me how these kids can afford to spend so much money on clothes and CDs.
spoken informal say this when it is impossible for you to know the answer to a question, especially when you are annoyed or surprised that someone has asked you: · "Why is Sharon in such a bad mood?" "How should I know - she never tells me anything."· "We figured we could pay about $200 a week, right?" "Don't ask me! I wasn't in on the conversation."
spoken say this when you think it is impossible for anyone to know the answer to a question: · The world might end tomorrow. Who knows?
spoken say this when you do not know the answer to a difficult question or a joke, and you want someone to tell you: · "Guess who's coming to dinner tonight?" "I give up. Tell me."· "Why did the chicken cross the road?" "I give up, why did the chicken cross the road?"
to not know a place, film or book etc to know little or nothing about a subject, book, play etc because you have not studied it, read it, or seen it: · I'm afraid I'm not familiar with Professor Vaughan's work.· For those of you who may not be familiar with the play I'll give a brief summary of the plot.· It is difficult for anyone unfamiliar with astronomy to grasp the concept of the Black Hole.
if someone or something is unfamiliar to you, you do not know them because you have never seen, heard, or experienced them before: · The voice on the phone sounded unfamiliar.· It took Steven some time to get used to his unfamiliar surroundings.unfamiliar to: · The song is in Russian, a language unfamiliar to many singers.
to not realize what is happening · "It's my birthday today." "Oh, I didn't realize. I should have bought you a card."not know/not realize/have no idea (that) · I wish I'd brought my coat. I didn't know it would be so cold.· We didn't realize that he had quit, until he didn't show up at work that day.not know/not realize/have no idea what/how/where etc · My wife and I had no idea how much we would depend upon Social Security in the future.
formal to not know about a situation or about something that is happening, especially when you should know about it: be unaware/not be aware of: · The child was clearly unaware of the danger.· If any bad feelings existed between the two of them, I was not aware of it.be unaware/not be aware that: · His parents weren't even aware that he smoked.
formal to know nothing about a subject or situation because you have not experienced it, read about it, or heard about it: · The general public has little or no knowledge of what is happening inside prisons.· The State Department said it had no knowledge of any threats to U.S. security.
also unbeknownst to somebody use this about something that was happening without you knowing about it at the time: · Unbeknown to me, Denise had her own plan.· Unbeknownst to the public, he was involved in covering up the scandal that was to rock the nation.
use this when you did not know or imagine that something was true or would happen: little did I/she/he etc know that: · Little did she know that this picture would one day be worth more than a million dollars.· Little did I know then that I would be working in Los Angeles 35 years later.
spoken say this when you know almost nothing about a situation and to suggest something that might have happened or be true, especially something unlikely: · They may have gone to South America, for all we know.· You shouldn't have accepted a ride from him. For all you knew he might have been a mass murderer.
if you are unconscious of the effect of something that you have said or done, you do not realize how it affects other people: · She appeared to be unconscious of the amusement she had caused by her remarks.· Like many tourists they were unconscious of the fact that they had deeply offended their hosts.
someone who is oblivious to what is happening around them does not notice it and continues to do other things without being affected by it: oblivious of: · They soon fell asleep, oblivious of the danger.oblivious to: · The walkers in front crossed the ledge easily, seemingly oblivious to the fact that there was a 3000 foot drop on either side.· In the sitcom she plays a New York executive who's totally oblivious to the feelings of others.
to not know anything about a subject · Don't ask me. I know nothing at all about fixing cars.· No one else at school knew anything about jazz.know nothing of formal · When he arrived in Venice he knew almost nothing of its history or culture.
informal to know nothing at all about how to do something: · I'm amazed how he puts all the bits of the computer back together. I wouldn't have a clue.have no idea/not have a clue about: · After nine years of marriage, he still didn't have a clue about what she really wanted.have no idea/not have a clue how/what/where etc: · It became clear that the sales people didn't have any idea how to sell the new products.
British a subject that is a closed book to someone is one that they know nothing about, and that they believe they will never understand: · For many people, science is something of a closed book.
to not know about something that other people know if you are in the dark about something, especially something important, you have not been told about it because other people want to keep it secret: · We have no idea why he's been arrested. We're still completely in the dark.be in the dark about: · Most board members were kept in the dark about this important financial information.· We're being kept in the dark about the dangers of food additives by the big food manufacturers.
informal if you are not in on a secret plan, you have not been told about it and are not involved in it: · They weren't in on the robbery -- only me and my brother knew about it.
to not know the most recent information about something someone who is out of touch with something used to know about it but does not now know the most recent information about it, because they have not read about it or been involved in it for a long time: · I don't know what kind of music kids listen to these days -- I'm really out of touch.be out of touch with: · The press accused MacGregor of being out of touch with the campaign he was supposed to be running.
if you lose touch with a situation or a subject, you no longer know the latest information about it and are unable to understand what is happening in it: · I must do some teaching again -- I'm worried about losing touch.lose touch with: · The French President has lost touch with the reality of the political situation in France.· When you're living abroad, it's easy to lose touch with what's going on back home.
if you lose track of something or someone, you no longer know where they are or what has happened to them: · I had the file on my desk a minute ago, but I seem to have lost track of it.· After the war they lost track of each other.· They fed us every twelve hours, but when you can't see the sun, you lose track of time.
informal if you are not up on the latest fashions, music, or news, you do not know about them: · I spend most of my time in the woods of Wyoming these days, so I'm not really up on all the latest fashions and movies.· My dad's not really up on what kids think these days.
ways of saying that no one knows something · Maybe the world will end tomorrow. Who can say?· He might come back and say he still loves me, who knows? Who cares?who knows/who can say what/where/why etc · Who knows whether Mimi ever made it to Paris.
spoken say this when you mean that it is impossible to know something: · "Where'd she go?" "God knows."God knows/heaven knows what/who/why etc: · I've just missed my train, so God knows what time I'll get home now.· Heaven knows why she feels she can't trust her own parents.
spoken say this when neither you, nor anyone else knows the answer to a question or the truth about something, and any answer could be correct: · How he'd lived through it all is anybody's guess.it's anybody's guess who/what/why etc: · It's anybody's guess who will come out on top when the winners are announced at the Grammy Awards this year.
spoken say this when it is impossible to know what will happen, especially when you are worried that something bad might happen: there's no telling/knowing who/what/why etc: · "He's a desperate man. There's no telling what he'll do next," said Holmes.· There was no knowing when the flood waters might recede with so much rain in the forecast.
spoken say this when someone asks you a question and you do not know the answer, so that they are just as likely to guess the right answer as you are: · "Who do you think will win the World Cup?" "Your guess is as good as mine."
not knowing about something someone who is ignorant does not know facts or information that they should know: · I didn't like to ask him to explain more clearly because I didn't want to appear ignorant.ignorant of: · There are still doctors who are ignorant of patients' rights, or who try to deny them.ignorant about: · I'm very ignorant about politics.
when someone does not know facts or information that they should know: · I haven't read your latest book, so I hope you'll forgive my ignorance.ignorance of: · He showed complete ignorance of the most basic historical facts.
people or opinions that are uninformed show a lack of knowledge and information about the subject that they are discussing: · Careless or uninformed decisions during these huge storms can lead to loss of life and property.uninformed about: · The Vice-President gave the impression of being remarkably uninformed about South American affairs.
not knowing much about something or making mistakes about it because you have been given incorrect or not enough information: · He's either a liar or he's incredibly ill-informed.· Writers such as Oscar Wilde were the target of ill-informed and often hostile criticism simply because they were gay.ill-informed about: · For someone who wants to be a journalist, she's remarkably ill-informed about current affairs.
someone who has no special knowledge about a subject such as science or medicine, as opposed to people who have special knowledge or training: · Professor Hawking's book is intended for the lay person who has an interest in the field of nuclear physics and astronomy.in layman's terms (=using words a layman can understand): · Many superb doctors are incapable of communicating in layman's terms.
something that people know nothing or very little about · After they left Kathmandu they would be travelling through unknown territory.· There are still a great many unknown insect species in the world.· Yesterday the village was quite unknown, but today it's on the front page of all the newspapers.
a place or an experience that people have not been in before and that they are therefore often nervous about: · In 1492 Columbus and his group of tiny ships set off into the unknown.· Starting a new relationship with someone is always a journey into the unknown.fear of the unknown: · The fear of the unknown prevents many people from making significant changes in their lives.
relating to places that have not been put on a map yet, or to situations that have not yet been experienced: · Space is filled with unknown stars and uncharted galaxies.uncharted territory: · When Indian politicians established mass democracy in 1947, they knew they were entering uncharted territory.
if something is unidentified , people do not know what it is, what its name is, or who it belongs to - used especially in newspapers or in official reports: · A large unidentified object was spotted floating in the sea near our ship.· Two unidentified gunmen opened fire on the Consulate van.· The body remained unidentified until the police checked dental records.
a little known place or thing is one that not many people know about: · He was born on a little known island off the south coast of Spain.· The kakapo is a little known species of parrot that lives in New Zealand.
a person or place that not many people know or know about · The picture was painted in the 15th Century by an unknown Italian artist.· Until their first single, the Beatles were virtually unknown outside Hamburg and Liverpool.unknown to · The Internet has opened up a marketplace where sellers and buyers are virtually unknown to each other.
a little known artist, film etc is one that very few people know about: · A little-known separatist group claimed responsibility for the explosion.· Bernardo Vittone is little known outside his native Italy.
not at all well-known and usually not very important: · Picasso's first exhibition received only a short mention in an obscure Parisian newspaper.· The Silver Apples are one of those obscure bands that you might hear about, but never actually hear.
written a mysterious person that people know very little about, especially someone who seems dangerous: · Vogel, a high-ranking official in East Berlin, was one of the Cold War's most shadowy figures.
someone that very little is known about, especially in relation to their abilities, so that you do not know if they will be successful: · The team's new pitcher has never played pro baseball before and is something of an unknown quantity.
to know someone if you know someone, you have met them before, can remember their face or name, and know something about them, such as where they live, what their job is etc: · Do you two know each other?· Everyone who knew her described her as a kind, generous person.· Do you know anyone who can repair a boiler?· Although we worked for him for years, Cathy was the only one who knew him well.
to be able to recognize someone but not know their name or anything else about them: · Bentson knew all the women by sight, but he'd never exchanged more than a few words with any of them.· Two or three of the salespeople knew me by sight.
formal to know someone because you have met once or twice before but to not know much about them: · "Have you met Lee Davidson?" "No, I don't think we're acquainted."· He lived in Great Russell Street and became acquainted with Keynes and other famous British thinkers of the time.
to start to know someone to start to become friends with someone by spending a lot of time with them and talking to them: · The volunteers had a lot of trouble getting to know the local people.· Being stuck on a small boat, you get to know someone pretty well.· Steve's alright once you get to know him.
to start to know someone who you have only just met: · I'll leave you two alone so you can get acquainted.get acquainted with: · I had no problems getting acquainted with the girls, but the guys were a little harder.get better acquainted: · Maybe we should invite Sam round for dinner so we can get better acquainted.
to see and talk to someone for the first time: · Where did you meet Michael?· Carol and I first met at university.· Branford took us to meet a few of his colleagues.
someone you know, but not very well · She's just an acquaintance -- I see her sometimes at night school.business/childhood/musical etc acquaintance (=one you know from business, childhood etc) · I first heard of the idea from a business acquaintance in Montpelier.mutual acquaintance (=one that you and someone else both know) · Jane and I met through a mutual acquaintance at a party.
if you have met someone, you have seen and talked to them, although you do not know them very well: · "Do you know Chris?" "Yes, we've met."· We met once before at Jo's house.
someone you do not know · The room was full of strangers.be a stranger to somebody · After assuming office, he was reluctant to use the existing speech writers because they were strangers to him.perfect/complete stranger (=use this to emphasize that you do not know someone at all) · The boy was a complete stranger to me.
to ask someone a question · If you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask.· For information about the new drug, ask your doctor.ask (somebody) if/whether · I was a little surprised when he asked me if I was married.ask (somebody) about something · They'll probably just ask you about your education and work experience.ask (somebody) what/how/why etc · What should I tell people if they ask me why you didn't come to the party?ask (somebody) a question · At the end of the presentation you'll all have a chance to ask questions.
to ask for information or advice from someone, because it is their job to know about it: · Before starting any exercise program, you should consult your doctor.consult with: · The President is going to consult with European leaders before making his decision.consult somebody about something: · We've consulted with several engineers about the best way to support the bridge.
to ask something - use this especially when you are reporting what someone else has asked: · "Why didn't you write to me?" Barbara wanted to know.· The policeman wanted to know their names, but they wouldn't tell him.want to know about: · Everybody in the office wanted to know about my trip.want to know where/how/why etc: · Jason wants to know where you keep the kitchen scissors.
also enquire especially British formal to ask someone for information about something, especially someone whose job is to know about it: · "Where is the director's office?" he enquired.· We inquired at all the hotels in town, but we couldn't find Carol anywhere.inquire about: · Several people have phoned the personnel department to inquire about the position.inquire if/whether: · She stopped a guard and enquired whether the train went to Evesham.inquire how/when etc: · We rang the hospital again to inquire how the old man was.
to find out what someone thinks about your plan or idea by asking them questions, especially because you want their help or support: sound somebody out: · I think she'll like the idea, but you'd better sound her out first.sound out somebody: · Before launching the project, they sounded out a number of leading experts.sound out about/on: · The board of directors have sounded him out about taking the CEO position.
to deliberately ask someone a question that they find difficult or embarrassing to answer: · The reporter's questions were clearly designed to put the Senator on the spot.· I don't want to put you on the spot, but I'm really curious about how you know Tim.
to be unable to do something · "Will you help me move this?" "I'm sorry, I can't - my back's still giving me trouble."can't/cannot do something · Louise can't see anything without her glasses.· He couldn't remember where he had left the car.· I could never have climbed that ridge - I'm too out of shape.· Scientists still cannot explain exactly how the virus reproduces.· Sarah could not understand why anyone would want to hurt her.
- use this especially in the past or future tense: · Unfortunately, I wasn't able to help them.· I'm afraid I won't be able to come to the meeting after all.· The doctor told Tina she wouldn't be able to have children.· I've looked all over the house but I haven't been able to find my keys anywhere.
especially written to not be able to do something, especially something important that you want to do or need to do: · He lay awake all night, unable to sleep.· The surgery left her unable to walk for nearly three months.
the fact that someone is unable to do something, used especially when you are annoyed with them because you think they are too weak, lazy etc to do it: · Her actions show an inability to distinguish between fantasy and reality.somebody's inability to do something: · He even blamed his parents for his inability to make friends.· Voters are becoming frustrated at the inability of the administration to do anything about the debt crisis.
to not have the physical or mental ability to do something - often used when you are criticizing someone: be incapable/not be capable of: · Matthew seemed to be incapable of keeping a job.· She's no longer capable of taking care of herself.· Nero was a cruel man, utterly incapable of pity or sympathy.
informal to not be able to do something because you do not have enough knowledge, money, or authority: · I'm afraid I'm not in a position to answer your questions.· Local school boards are in no position to pay for the extra cost of the curriculum.scarcely/hardly in a position to do something: · The US is hardly in a position to criticize other countries for wasting energy supplies.
to be unable to do something because you do not have the right training or experience: not be equipped/be ill-equipped to do something: · The young teacher wasn't equipped to deal with such a difficult class.· The organization is ill-equipped to deal with the problems it may encounter.not be equipped/be ill-equipped for: · After so many years in prison, Victor was not equipped for life on the outside.
to be unable to do something, especially something practical, because you have not learned how to do it: · I didn't know how to drive a car till I was 28.· A lot of the doctors here still don't know how to use the new equipment.
to be able to do something · "I don't think Mike can type." "Yes, he can."can do something · He can run faster than me.· Can you see the TV, or should I move?· This program can translate your e-mail into other languages.· How many hamburgers do you think you can eat?· Adrian could read when he was four.· If we had a boat we could row across to the island.· Why didn't they ask me? I could have done it for them for half the price.
if you are able to do something, you can do it - use this especially about something that needs a lot of effort, skill, or knowledge: · Those bags look really heavy - are you sure you'll be able to carry them on your own?· After the accident it was a long time before she was able to walk again.· To take the class, you have to be able to use a computer.be able to: · My grandpa's getting old now and he can't do all the things he used to be able to.
to have the ability, energy, or qualities needed to do something, especially something very difficult or unusual - use this about people or machines: · He's a very angry kid, but he's not capable of murder.be capable of doing something: · The missiles are capable of travelling about 700 miles.· Around 7 or 8, children are already capable of making their own moral evaluations.be perfectly capable of doing something (=used to emphasize that you are definitely capable of doing something): · Leave the boy alone, I'm sure he's perfectly capable of fixing it himself.
to be able to do something, especially something that is unusual or that most people cannot do: · She seemed to have the ability to make people do anything she wanted.· I believe the team definitely has the ability to win the championship.
to be able to do something, especially to deal with a particular problem, because you have been properly prepared or had the right training: · By the end of the course, students should be equipped to deal with any business situation.· The emergency services are well equipped to cope with disasters of this kind.
to have the ability and the qualities of character needed to do something difficult, especially when you or other people doubt that you can do it: · I admired the way you refused to let him bully you - I didn't think you had it in you.have it in you to do something: · No one thought I would win, but I knew I had it in me to do it if I really tried.
to be able to do something, because you know a way of a doing it, especially something practical such as operating a machine: · Do you know how to use this computer?· I'd turn the thing off if only I knew how.
to have enough knowledge, money, or equipment to do something: · Once the loan is paid off, Jones will be in a position to run the casino himself.· We will have to run more tests before we are in a position to say whether the document is authentic or not.be in a good/excellent/better position to do something: · When I've read the whole report I'll be in a better position to comment.
when something happens to you if something happens to you, it affects you and you are involved in it, but you did not do anything to make it happen: · The crash wasn't your fault. It could have happened to anyone.· Winning this award is the greatest thing that's ever happened to me.
if you experience something, especially an emotion, a physical feeling, or an unpleasant situation, it happens to you: · When you first tried a cigarette, you probably experienced a feeling of dizziness.· It was the first time she had ever experienced real poverty.
to experience a period of time that is difficult or unhappy: · Kevin's going through a painful divorce.somebody's been through a lot: · Betty's been through a lot recently -- I think you ought to try and be nice to her.
to experience a period of time when there are important historical events happening which affect people's lives: · His new book is a collection of essays and fiction by writers who lived through the Great Depression.
: know hardship/joy/sorrow etc to experience problems, joy, sorrow etc -- used especially in literature: · In his seven short years, he has known war, famine and death.· I don't think I've ever known true happiness.
experienced in a particular job or activity someone who is experienced knows a lot about a job or activity because they have done it for a long time: · Ms Carter is one of our most experienced teachers.experienced in (doing) something: · This job would suit someone experienced in dealing with the public.highly experienced (=very experienced): · Highly experienced cost estimators for construction projects earn around $80,000 a year.
: seasoned traveller/politician/professional etc someone who has done something regularly for a long time and knows all the problems involved: · Being a seasoned traveller, he was fully prepared for the long delay at the airport.· We need a seasoned manager to run this project.
British /practiced American someone who is practised in a particular job or skill has become good at it through experience: · A practised observer would quickly notice changes in the birds' behaviour.practised in: · Morris is a skilful salesman, practiced in the art of persuasion.
someone who has been doing something important in public life for a very long time and is respected by other people: veteran of: · Chiles, a three-term veteran of the U.S. Senate, won the governorship of Florida.veteran campaigner/statesman/broadcaster etc: · Millett is a veteran campaigner for women's rights.· Veteran diplomat Richard Murphy is heading the commission.
someone who has been doing something for a long time and knows all the best ways of doing it: · Charlie will show you what to do - he's one of our old hands.old hand at: · Nurse Baker is an old hand at dealing with difficult patients.
informal to have a lot of knowledge about something, gained from experience: · You may not want to believe me, but I do know a thing or two.know a thing or two about: · I think he knows a thing or two about football - he's been playing for 15 years.
to know how to do all the parts of a job or to be able to deal with a system because you have had a lot of experience: · The best way to learn is to spend some time with someone who knows the ropes.· People who shop at thrift stores regularly know the ropes.
informal someone whom you admire because of their great skill and experience in a particular job, profession, or activity: · My accountant knows his stuff - he's a real pro.old pro: · If there's a fish down there he'll catch it - he's a old pro.
good at something because you have experience or training British /skillful American someone who is skilful does something very well because they have had a lot of training or experience: · the artist's skillful use of color· Success in business depends on skilful management.· Skilful and confident, Donaldson should become one of the game's best players.
someone who is skilled at a particular job has the training and skill to do it well: · There is a demand for carpenters and other skilled craftsmen.skilled job/work (=requiring special skill, especially when you use your hands): · Shoeing a horse is a skilled job, and no unskilled person should try it.highly skilled (=very skilled): · Keeping highly skilled sailors in the Navy is a priority.skilled at doing something: · Our advisors are skilled at dealing with financial problems.
extremely skilful at doing something because you have gained a lot of knowledge or experience of this particular subject or activity over a long period of time: · Students learn to cook French food with the help of expert chefs.· My grandmother was an expert dressmaker.expert at/in: · Politicians are usually expert at turning a crisis to their advantage.expert help/advice/opinion etc (=given by someone who knows a lot about it): · Tennis coaches will be available to provide expert advice.
spoken use this to say that someone is good at doing something and you admire and trust them because of this: · Kids can tell if a teacher doesn't know what he's doing.· You seem to know what you're doing -- I'll leave you to it.
good at doing something that needs care and skill, for example dealing with people or with difficult social situations: adept at/in: · Of all our staff, Peter is the most adept at dealing with difficult customers.· McCrea was equally adept in comedy and drama.
someone who is very good at writing, acting, or other artistic skills, especially as a result of a lot of practice and training, but who does not usually have a special natural ability for it: · His two daughters are both accomplished athletes.highly accomplished: · Johann Sebastian Bach had three sons who all became highly accomplished musicians and composers.
to know a subject, especially a language, well and be good at it: · Candidates should have good typing skills and a good command of English.· She has an excellent command of all the facts.
informal to be able to do something very easily because you have done it a lot of times before: · I've played this piece so often I can practically do it in my sleep.
to not pay attention to what someone says or does to deliberately pay no attention to what someone does or says, and pretend it is not important or does not affect you: · She ignored my question and continued her story.· Someone made a rude noise, which the teacher decided to ignore.· My father's always telling me what to do, but I usually just ignore him.ignore somebody's advice/warning: · It was very stupid of you to ignore your mother's advice.· Ignoring my warnings, he dived straight into the shallow water.
to ignore someone or something, especially by not watching or listening to them: · "What's this injection for?'' he asked the nurse. She paid no attention, rolling up his sleeve in silence.· People living near the crash scene paid no attention when they heard the aircraft's engine cut out in mid-air. pay no attention/not pay any attention to: · More than half the people questioned said they did not pay any attention to political broadcasts.
not to let someone affect what you do or the way you feel: · Stan has fired me before. I usually take no notice and turn up for work again the next day.take no notice/not take any notice of: · Take no notice of him. He's just being silly.· He never took any notice of the baby, even when it screamed.
to ignore someone's advice when they talk to you: · You never listen to me. You just do whatever you want.· It's because you didn't listen to Roger that you are in this trouble now.not listen to reason (=not listen to sensible advice): · We all warned Susan not to marry that man, but she wouldn't listen to reason.
if your request or suggestion falls on deaf ears , it is ignored by the people who have the power to deal with it: · The workers' demand for a wage increase has fallen on deaf ears.· As rioting continued, Mayor Warren appealed for calm, but his words fell on deaf ears.
informal to not be willing to listen to people's problems, complaints, bad news etc because you do not want to be worried by them: · You'd think the government would be concerned about people sleeping rough, but they just don't want to know.not want to know about: · If you're going to start an argument with Alex, I don't want to know about it.
especially American to deliberately not listen to what someone is saying, especially because it is unpleasant or you have heard it before: tune out something: · He had learned to tune out the kids' constant questions.tune something out: · There was a warning voice in the back of her mind, but she tuned it out.
to be independent in the way you think to make decisions or form opinions without expecting other people to help or approve of you: · Parents should encourage their children to think for themselves.· The purpose of this question is to force students to think for themselves.· 'You're going to have to start thinking for yourself,' said David sternly.
to have a strong character and strong opinions that are not influenced by other people's: · She's a woman with a mind of her own, who says what she thinks.· But Mansell has a mind of his own, and he was adamant he would make racing his career.
to have a strong character and be confident about what you want to do: · Though not yet 15, Sara knows her own mind, and has already decided on a career.· I'm in my mid-thirties and ought to know my own mind by now, but I'm scared of getting married.
to be confident of your opinions, without letting other people influence you - use this when you approve of someone like this: · Stan was intellectual, confident and above all, his own man.· She didn't want to quarrel with him, but made it plain that she was her own woman now, with her own life to lead.· Sheila is very much her own woman. She'll listen to everyone and then make up her mind for herself.
to be lost to not know where you are, or not know the way to the place that you want to go to: · Excuse me, I'm lost. Could you tell me where the station is, please?· Eventually the three children realized they were lost.
if you do not know where you are , you do not recognize the place that you are in: · I really don't know where we are - can I take a look at the map.· By this time she no longer knew where she was, and was beginning to panic.
material for making clothes, curtains etc use this when you think that something may happen or may be true, but you are not sure. Perhaps is more formal than maybe .: · "Will you be there tomorrow?" "I don't know, maybe."· I wonder why she's late - maybe she missed the train.· The footprints belonged to a large cat, a tiger, perhaps.· I'm not sure why I couldn't sleep. Perhaps it was the coffee.maybe not/perhaps not: · "It's not her fault that she can't get a job." "Well, maybe not, but she should make a little more effort."· Housing prices will continue to rise, though perhaps not as much as was predicted last year.
use this with other verbs, to show that something is possible, or likely, but you are not sure about it. May and might are more formal than could: · Take your umbrella -- it might rain.· Hundreds of workers may lose their jobs if the strike continues.· We could be home before midnight if the traffic isn't too bad.may/might/could have done something: · "Bruce isn't here yet." "He may have decided not to come."· It's a good thing we got her to the hospital right away -- the doctor said she could have died if we'd waited.
use this when you think that something may happen or may be done, but that it is not very likely: · I might have to work on Saturday, so it's possible I won't be able to come to your party.· There's a chance that I'll be in California in October, so I might be able to visit you for a few days.it is just possible (that)/there is just a chance (that) (=when something is possible, but very unlikely): · Tomorrow should be sunny but there's just a chance of showers in the afternoon.· It's just possible we'll finish the job by tonight, but it'll probably be tomorrow.outside chance/possibility: · Martinez will need surgery, but there's an outside chance he'll be playing again before the end of the season.slim chance/possibility: · Sims has some numbness and weakness in her legs, and surgeons say there is a slim possibility of paralysis.
use this when you think that something may be true, but you do not have enough information to be sure: · "Do you think she was murdered, inspector?" "Possibly."· He's playing in the US Open Golf Championships - possibly for the last time.· Stone is possibly America's finest film director.· The cancer was possibly caused by exposure to asbestos.· Trade between the two countries began in the 11th century, possibly even earlier.· Many analysts believe interest rates will rise, possibly as early as next spring.quite possibly (=very possibly): · The examination hall was vast, with at least 700 or 800 students and quite possibly as many as 1000.
if you think something may conceivably happen or be true, it seems unlikely but you can imagine that it is possible: · Reservations are advised but you might conceivably find a hotel the day you arrive.· It is still unlikely, but unemployment could conceivably begin to fall by the end of the year.
spoken say this when you are not sure whether something will happen, because no one knows what will happen in the future: · I don't think I'll ever get married, but you never know.· Why don't you ask for a raise? You never know, they could say yes.
spoken say this when you have no way of knowing whether something is true or not true: · "Will you still be working here next year?" "Who knows? Maybe I will, maybe I won't."· Maybe he wasn't telling the truth. Who knows?
when something could happen if something is possible , there is a chance that it may happen or it may be true: · Accidents are always possible in heavy industries like mining.· You can't be a Muslim and a Catholic at the same time - it's just not possible.· technological changes and their possible effects on our livesit is possible for somebody to do something: · It is possible for more than one person to win the competition.it is possible that: · It is possible that the children are still alive.
something that can happen or may happen: possibility of: · We could not ignore the possibility of an enemy attack.there is a possibility that: · Unless there is some change in the economy, there is a possibility that the plant may close.a real/distinct/strong possibility (=something that is quite likely to happen): · A Republican victory in next month's elections now seems to be a real possibility.· There's a distinct possibility that there will be another earthquake.a faint/slight possibility: · There is still a faint possibility that Sarah will be found safe and well.
if something can happen, it is possible for it to happen at some time: · Mistakes can occur, even in the most carefully controlled situations.· A lot can happen in two years.· It can be warm in England, even in March.
a potential problem, advantage, effect etc is not a problem, advantage etc now, but it may become one in the future: · For the first time she realized the potential danger of her situation.· It is important for manufacturers to identify potential problems at the design stage.potential customer/buyer/student etc (=someone who may become a customer, buyer etc in the future): · a way of making the college more attractive to potential students
use this to say that it is possible that something will happen: there is a chance/possibility of: · On the northern hills there is always the possibility of a snow shower, even in June.there is a chance/possibility that: · Is there any chance that he will recover from his injury in time for the race?
say this to show that you think there is some possibility that something might happen, even though it seems unlikely: · I'd love to be a doctor, but you have to be very clever for that. Still, you never know.
to recognize someone or something also recognise British to know who someone is or what something is, especially because you have seen them before: · Lisa! I'm sorry -- I didn't recognize you -- you've had your hair cut!· I can't remember how the tune goes but I'll recognize it when I hear it.· That security guy never recognizes me. I always have to show him my ID.· They recognised my Michigan accent right away.recognize somebody from something: · I recognized her from the movies, but she was much taller than I expected.· I recognize you from somewhere -- don't you work at the bank?recognize somebody/something as something: · The waiter recognized one of his customers as someone he went to school with.· She recognised the voice on the phone as Tim's, but he sounded strange.
to recognize someone or something, especially when you have not seen them for some time or when they have changed a lot: · Would you know him if you saw him again?· The town has changed so much you wouldn't know the place.· You'll know him when you see him. He has red curly hair and is very tall and thin.
to recognize and name someone who has done something illegal or someone who has died: · The airline says it will be difficult to identify all the bodies retrieved from the crash.· Police hope that a member of the public will be able to identify a man seen acting suspiciously a few hours before the murder took place. · Dubois was identified by immigration control, and arrested at Kennedy airport.· proposals to identify the fathers of children born to single mothersidentify somebody as something: · Sara identified the man as Kang, a notorious gang leader and drug baron.· The girl, identified as Shelly Barnes, fell from the window when her mother's back was turned.
to recognize someone or something out of a group of things or people: pick out somebody/something: · Both men were picked out from an identity parade by witnesses. · It was hard to pick out faces he knew in the crowd.· Are there any questions that can help pick out a drug addict?pick somebody/something out: · I was listening for Steve's voice, but it wasn't easy to pick it out among all the others.
to be able to recognize someone or something, especially when this is not easy: · "What colour was the car?" "I couldn't tell in the dark."tell (that): · You look different in the photograph, although I can tell it's you.tell who/what etc: · There's someone on the phone for you. I can't tell who it is.· "Can you tell what this is with your eyes shut?" "It tastes of strawberry, but I'm not sure."tell the difference between somebody/something: · I find it really difficult to tell the difference between Frank and his brother.· If we don't use labelling, how can consumers tell the difference between organic and non-organic foods?tell something from something else (=to be able to recognize the difference between them): · It's a very good fake. You couldn't tell it from the real thing.· My kids have plenty of friends, and to be honest I can't tell one from another.tell two things apart (=to be able to recognize that they are different in some way): · Male ducks are easy to tell apart in the breeding season.· At the moment, we can only tell the twins apart by looking at their name tags.
not saying anything especially written not speaking: · Phil was silent for a moment as he thought about his reply.remain silent: · I wanted to say 'please don't go', but instead I remained silent, and she left.fall silent (=become silent): · The woman fell silent, though she kept darting angry glances at Jessica.
to be unable to say anything because you are very surprised or because you are not prepared for the situation that has suddenly happened: · No matter what happens he never seems lost for words.· She stared at his letter, clearly at a loss for words.
to be suddenly unable to say anything because you are extremely surprised or shocked and cannot believe what has happened: · Amy was struck dumb. Was it possible that her own son had deceived her?be struck dumb with: · When he arrived at the scene of the disaster, he was struck dumb with horror and amazement.
informal to suddenly become unwilling to talk: · He always clams up when I ask him about his job -- do you think he's doing something illegal?· The police took her in for questioning, but she clammed up when they asked about her boyfriend.
unable to say anything because you are very angry, surprised, or upset: · Anna was speechless. She had never seen such luxury before.speechless with: · Laura stared at him, absolutely speechless with rage.leave/render somebody speechless (=make someone speechless): · His words dented her pride and left her speechless.
unable or unwilling to say anything because you are nervous or embarrassed: · She became tongue-tied when she looked at the handsome man sitting beside her.· Nervousness affects people in different ways. While some people become tongue-tied, others cannot stop talking.
spoken say this when someone gives you an unexpected present, or does something bad or shocking, and you cannot express how happy, angry etc you feel: · You're so kind! I don't know what to say.· Well, I don't know what to say. It's absolutely disgraceful!
spoken say this when you are so shocked or angry that you cannot think of anything to say to express how you feel: · Just look at this mess. Look at it. It's...Words fail me!
to not say anything even though you want very much to say what you think: · I had to bite my tongue to stop myself telling Neil exactly what I thought of his stupid plan.· She's so temperamental that even if you disagree with her it's better to bite your tongue and say nothing.
very soon use this to talk about something good that will happen very soon or that happened a very short time after something else: · Don't worry - you'll be back to normal in no time.· In no time at all he had built up a big following among the local black community.
spoken use this to talk about something that will happen or that you will do within a few minutes: · The coffee will be ready in a minute.· Don't keep nagging me - I'll do it in a minute!· We will return to the subject of tax in a moment.
spoken use this to say that something will happen in a very short time from now, but you do not know exactly when: · My father's due to arrive any minute now.· Any moment now the final whistle will be blown.· If she hasn't had the baby already, she's going to have it any time now.
spoken use this to say that something will happen at some time in the next few days, but you do not know exactly when: · The letter should be with you any day now.· His ship was due back from the Pacific any day now.
use this to talk about something that may happen very soon, especially something dangerous or unpleasant: · He could have another heart attack at any moment.· We knew that war might break out at any moment.· The car looked as though it would fall apart at any minute.
American use this to tell someone politely that something will happen very soon: · Mr Ewing will see you momentarily, sir.
spoken use this to say that something will happen or be done very soon and before you really realize it is happening: · You'll be fully recovered before you know it.· You offer to iron his shirt and before you know it, he expects you to do all the housework.
to speak a language · Nadia speaks six languages.speak French/Japanese/Russian etc · Is there anyone here who can speak Arabic?
to be able to speak, read, and understand some of a particular foreign language: · I know enough Italian to travel around there.· Do you know any Polish?
very good at speaking a foreign language, so that you can speak it quickly without stopping and you understand it very well: fluent in English/German/Thai etc: · Applicants should be fluent in Cantonese.fluent French/Arabic/Japanese etc: · Ann speaks fluent Italian.
able to speak two languages very well: · About 80 percent of the school's students are bilingual.
able to speak several languages very well: · Many people who work at the European Parliament are multilingual.
someone who can speak a particular language: speaker of English/Russian/Arabic etc: · Speakers of Cantonese often cannot understand speakers of Mandarin.English/Spanish/Urdu etc speaker: · The hotel has two English speakers on its staff.native speaker (=learnt a particular language as their first language as a child): · All our English teachers are native speakers.
to suffer because of bad things you have done or mistakes you have made · If you tell lies, it is you who will suffer in the end.make somebody suffer · When his mother caught him cheating she really made him suffer.suffer for · All over the world, people are suffering for their political or religious beliefs.· I shouldn't have drunk all that wine - I'll suffer for it tomorrow morning.
to have a bad experience as a way of being punished for something bad that you have done, mistakes you have made etc: pay for: · Miller refused to testify and paid for it by being labelled a communist.make somebody pay: · They think I've forgotten what they did to me, but I'll make them pay.pay dearly: · She drank far too much at the party and paid dearly for it the next day.pay the price/the penalty: · Tony didn't do any studying all year but paid the price when it came to the exams.
British to suffer or start having problems as a result of mistakes or decisions you made at an earlier time: · The school overspent on its budget last year, and now it's having to count the cost.count the cost of: · We are now counting the cost of our earlier mistakes.
if a mistake costs someone dearly or costs someone dear , they suffer a great deal because of it: · This scandal could cost the government dearly.· It was only a small mistake, but it cost us very dear.
if you know or find out something to your cost , you realize that something that happened or something you did at an earlier time is now causing problems or is likely to cause problems in the future: · As we now know to our cost, the disease is highly contagious.· Many people have found out to their cost that insurance policies do not always cover damage from flooding.
if you do something at a cost to someone or something, that person suffers because you do it: · She's struggled to keep the family going on her own -- at considerable cost to herself.· Ms Gideon has defended her cause at great cost to her personal and political reputation.
when you feel sure about something if you are sure about something, you believe that it is definitely true or correct: · 'The car was a BMW' 'Are you sure?'sure (that): · I'm surprised she isn't here - I was sure she would come.· Are you quite sure that he understood your instructions?sure about: · I think children are influenced by these films, but it's impossible to be sure about this.sure of: · You need to be sure of your facts before making any accusations.pretty sure: · I'm pretty sure Barbara still works here.absolutely sure: · We do not believe this is the body of the missing girl, but we have to check to be absolutely sure.
completely sure that something is true: certain (that): · Are you certain you didn't leave your keys at home?certain about: · He was certain about one thing - she would come back one day.certain of: · She won't let you borrow the car - I'm certain of that.absolutely certain: · Don't stop looking until you're absolutely certain you've found the place you want.
especially spoken completely sure that something is true - use this especially when other people are saying it might not be true: · "Are you sure you locked the door?" "Yes, I'm positive."positive (that): · She said she was positive the exam was next Tuesday.absolutely positive: · I'm absolutely positive I haven't made a mistake.
sure that something is true, even when you cannot prove it: convinced (that): · We've had no news of him, but we're convinced he's still alive.· She became convinced that her boyfriend was seeing someone else.convinced of: · Brown's wife was convinced of his innocence.
to be so certain about something that there are no doubts in your mind: have no doubt (that): · I've no doubt that his story is true.have no doubt about/of: · My boss told me he had no doubt about my abilities as a salesman.
to have a strong feeling that something is right or true, although there may be nothing to prove: know (that): · Sally knew that she and Carl would be the best of friends.· I just know your mother will love this necklace.· As soon as the phone rang, we knew something terrible must have happened.know it: · She's going to pass -- I just know it!
sure that you know the truth about something that has happened, because you have enough information: satisfied (that): · Police are now satisfied that her death was an accident.
sure that something good will happen, or that you will be able to achieve what you want: · ''Do you think you'll win tomorrow's game?'' - ''Well, we're all feeling pretty confident''.confident (that): · Doctors are confident that he'll make a full recovery.confident of: · A spokesman said the government was confident of winning the vote and would not discuss the possibility of defeat.
spoken informal say this when you feel sure that something is true: I bet (that): · I bet you're tired after such a long journey.· I bet she hasn't told her parents about this.
especially spoken if you say that something must be true or must have happened, you are sure about it, because of information you have or things you have noticed that make it seem very likely: · You must remember Sally Newton. She was in our French class.must have: · Kim didn't answer when I called - she must have gone to bed.· She didn't get into movies just because her mother was a famous actress, but it must have helped.
especially spoken if you say that something can't be true or can't have happened, you are sure that it is not true or has not happened: · He says he's 21 but he can't be older than 18.can't have: · She can't have gone to bed yet - it's only 8 o'clock.· If you failed that exam you can't have worked very hard.
you say I'd put money on it when you are so sure of something that you would be willing to take the chance of losing money if you were wrong: · "Do you really think the president will win again?'' "I'd put money on it.''
not sure if something is true or if something will happen · "What time does the film start?" "I think it's 8.30, but I'm not sure."not sure how/whether/when etc · I'm not sure where she lives.· I'm not sure how long it will take the bus to get there.not sure about · If you're not sure about the meaning of a word, look it up in a dictionary.not sure of · Use the 'Filesearch' function if you are not sure of the name of a file.can't be sure spoken (=when you think something is true, but you are not completely sure) · I can't be sure, but I think I saw Maggie coming out of the hospital this morning.
not sure about something. Not certain is more formal than not sure: · The man you're looking for could be Keith, but I'm not certain.not certain about: · I'm not certain about what time the buses come - I usually cycle.not certain how/why/where etc: · I'm really not certain how much fuel we've got left.
to not be at all sure if something is true or if something will happen: · "How old is she?" "Oh, I don't know - fifty, fifty-five?"not know if/whether/how etc: · I phoned her but I don't know if she got my message.· We do not know whether the lake is safe for swimming in.not know for sure especially spoken: · It could be this week but it might be much later. We don't know for sure.
Unsure and uncertain are more formal than not sure and not certain .: unsure/uncertain about: · I'm still a bit unsure about how to use this software.unsure/uncertain of: · Many workers are still unsure of their rights.unsure/uncertain who/what/whether etc: · David decided to become a teacher but was uncertain which subject to specialize in.
a feeling of not being sure whether something is true or correct: doubt about: · There are still some doubts about her suitability for the job.doubt as to: · There seems to be some doubt as to what warnings were given.
to think about something that you are not sure about, and try to guess what is true, what will happen, etc: · He says he's had no formal training but when you see how good his work is, you start to wonder.wonder if/how/whether etc: · I wonder if she'll recognize me after all these years.· He wondered whether he would be able to find the hotel again.
to give someone information by speaking or writing to them · If you'd told me earlier I might have been able to do something about it.tell somebody something · I want you to tell me all the details.· Who on earth told you that?· Can you tell me the quickest way to the centre of town?tell somebody (that) · She wrote to tell me she was getting married.· We were told that the manager wanted to see us in his office immediately.tell somebody what/where/who etc · Just tell me what happened.· Can you tell us where the nearest garage is?tell somebody about something · Have you told anyone about this?· One angry passenger claimed travellers were not told about the mechanical problems.
especially spoken to tell someone something important that they need to know or want to know: · If you need any help, just let me know.· You mean she just left without letting anyone know?let sb know about: · They said they'd let her know about the job by the end of the week.let somebody know something: · I'll let you know our new address as soon as I have it.let sb know (that): · When you get there, will you phone and let me know you arrived safely?let sb know what/where/how etc: · Jean tried to get in touch with her husband to let him know what had happened.
to officially or formally give someone information about something: · Do you think we ought to inform the police?inform somebody of/about something: · You should inform your bank of any change of address.· Doctors should inform patients about the possible side effects of any drugs they prescribe.inform somebody (that): · I am sorry to inform you that your application has been unsuccessful.
formal to officially or formally give important information to someone, especially by telling them about something that has happened or that will happen: · Passengers are requested to notify a member of staff if they see suspicious packages.notify somebody of something: · Police notified the boy's parents of his death immediately.notify somebody that: · Staff were notified several months in advance that they would be losing their jobs.
to tell someone about something that they did not know but which they should know: · I am sure that your parents will want to know about this, and I will personally bring it to their attention.· The General Medical Council cannot investigate every controversial treatment brought to its attention.it's been brought to my attention/notice that: · It's been brought to my notice that you've expressed your dislike of a certain member of the company.
to tell someone some bad news or something that might upset them: · Do you want to break the news or shall I?· She suspected that she had cancer, and that the doctors were trying to break it to her gradually.· After Jack's body was found, a policewoman had to break the news to his mother.break it to somebody that: · He was wondering how to break it to Celeste that their relationship was over.break the news gently/break it to somebody gently (=tell someone something in a way that does not shock them too much): · Maybe I should speak to Connor first, so he can break the news gently to Patrick and Mary.
to let someone know something without telling them directly to let someone know something without telling them directly, for example by behaving in a particular way or by telling someone else who you know will then tell the person: · The Queen made her displeasure known by cancelling her visit.make your feelings/views/wishes known: · People without the right to vote were often able to make their feelings known through demonstrations or riots.make it known that: · The other boys in Steven's class took every opportunity to make it known that he was not accepted.
formal to make someone think that something is true, or that something will happen, but without actually saying this clearly: · A friend of your daughter's gave us to understand that you lived in Michigan.· Although I received no official indication, I was given to understand that I would be promoted within a year.
if someone lets you know something shocking, bad, or unkind, but not in so many words , they let you know that it is true without saying it directly: · "Did Sarah tell you she was leaving?" "Not in so many words, no."
what you say when you think something is true, but you are not sure spoken · She'll be here about 9, I think.I think (that) · I think the dog must have eaten it.I think so · "Is Matthew still here?" "I think so -- I've just seen him."I would think so · "Will Jenny be at the meeting?" "I would think so."
spoken say this when you think that something is probably true but you are not really sure: · Having a burglar alarm makes you feel safer, I suppose.I suppose (that): · I suppose we can pay by credit card but we'd better check first.I suppose so (=say this to answer a question): · "Will the children be disappointed?" "Yes, I suppose so."
especially American, spoken say this when you think that something is probably true but you are not really sure: · Rob just got tired of living with her, I guess.I guess (that): · I guess this is the best way to do it.I guess so: · "Is the truck safe to drive now?" "I guess so."
to start to think something is a fact because of various things that happen, because of the way someone is behaving etc: get the impression/feeling/idea (that): · I got the impression she was actually quite nervous about it.· Walking down the main street, you get the feeling that nothing ever happens in this town.· I don't want you to get the idea that I don't like him.get this/that idea: · "He thinks you're angry with them." "Where on earth did he get that idea?"
spoken say this when you think that something is true, although you realize that you may not know all the facts: · As far as I know, Caroline's never been married.· Alaska doesn't have any drilling sites off the coast, as far as I know.
spoken say this when you think that something is likely to be true, although what you say is only based on your opinion: I imagine (that): · I imagine she's stuck in a traffic jam or something.I would imagine (that): · I would imagine that Libby could help you - she knows a lot about legal things.
spoken say this when you want to make it clear that there may be things you do not know about a situation: · As far as I am aware, Mr Cusner and his family are still living in Cleveland, Ohio.
formal spoken say this when you want to make it clear that you are not completely sure about the statement you are making: · To the best of my knowledge, this is the first time that anyone has translated these poems into English.
spoken say this when you think that something is true and you are asking someone else to tell you that you are right: I take it (that): · I take it that you're Rob's sister?· So can we take it that you'll be at the meeting?· You've made plans for the future, I take it?
to understand how someone feels to understand how someone feels, and feel sympathy for them, especially when they are upset or have problems: · I'm sure your teacher will understand.understand how/what/why etc: · I understand how you feel, but I still think you should apologize to her.
especially spoken to understand how someone feels and why they feel that way, especially because the reasons are very clear: see why/how/what: · You can see why Clare was so annoyed, can't you?see that: · I can see that you'd find that upsetting.
formal to understand clearly how someone feels or what problems they have: · Congress did not appreciate the amount of anger that people felt about this issue.· Parents have to find ways to show their children that they appreciate their feelings and reactions.appreciate (that): · I appreciate that it's not easy for you, but you must try to get here on time.
to understand how someone feels, because you have had the same feelings or experiences yourself: · I know how you feel. I couldn't watch either - it was too upsetting.know how it feels (to do something): · Believe me, I know how it feels to lose.
say this when you want someone to imagine they are in the same situation as another person, so that they can understand how the other person feels: · Well, put yourself in her place. Would you like it if someone did that to you?
feelings or attitudes that are understandable , especially feelings of anger, annoyance, or fear, do not surprise you because you can see that there are good reasons for them: · That teachers are annoyed about having so much extra paperwork is understandable.· There is understandable anger among the victims' families.it is understandable that: · It's understandable that she doesn't want to see Bill again.
to understand a situation, idea, or what someone is telling you · She spoke slowly and clearly so that everyone could understand.· I didn't understand the teacher's instructions.· When he's old enough to understand, we'll tell him he's adopted.understand what/why/how etc · Ben asked a few questions to make sure he understood what to do.· You don't need to understand how a computer works to use it.understand that · The witness said he understood that he was swearing to give true and correct information.easy/difficult to understand · Computer manuals should be written in a way that is easy to understand.understand perfectly (=understand completely) · Don't worry. I understand perfectly.fully understand (=understand completely) · Doctors still do not fully understand the process by which the disease is transmitted.
to understand what someone is telling you, especially if they have not expressed it very clearly: · I don't think your audience is going to know what you mean by this.you know what I mean? (=say this to check that someone understands you): · He seems really sad, you know what I mean?I know what you mean (=say this to show that you understand): · "It's a thing you hold pieces of wood in when you're doing woodwork." "Oh, I know what you mean -- a vice."
especially spoken to understand the truth about a situation, or understand the reasons for something: see what somebody means: · Try it for yourself, and you'll see what I mean.see why/how/what etc: · I can see why people don't like him.I see (=say this when you understand what someone has told you): · "It goes in the red box, here." "Oh, I see."you see (=say this when you are explaining something): · Well, you see, he's not really ready to read a book this difficult.see (that): · Well, I can see that the logic is somehow wrong, but I don't know why exactly.see any reason: · Can you see any reason why it shouldn't work?see the point (=understand why something is important): · At fourteen, he couldn't see the point of staying in school.see somebody's point (=understand the main idea or importance of what someone is saying): · I didn't like his attitude, but I could see his point.see the joke British (=understand why something is funny): · He's just one of those people who never seem to see the joke.
spoken to understand what someone says, what is happening, or why or how something happens: get it: · "Do you understand?" "Yeah, we've got it," one of the drivers replied.· Barbara Howell and her husband, Kenneth (Barbie and Ken, get it?) run a bed-and-breakfast inn.I don't get it: · Why did you turn down such a fantastic job? I don't get it.get a/the joke (=understand why something is funny): · John told me one of his stupid jokes, and it took me about five minutes to get it.get the point (=understand the main idea or importance of something): · I don't think you get the point. Legally, you must give us this information.get the idea: · The students should get the idea that this is a complex issue, with no easy answers.get what/why/how etc: · I just couldn't get what he meant.
formal to understand something that is complicated or difficult to understand: · Take the time to read, comprehend, and evaluate the report.· God cannot truly be seen or comprehended by the human mind.fully comprehend (=understand something completely): · The significance of the disappearance of the buffalo and the passenger pigeon was not fully comprehended until much later.
to fully understand a fact or an idea, especially one that it is important or difficult to understand: · Obviously, she had barely grasped the subject.· Science lessons should be taught in a way that makes the material easier to grasp.hard to grasp: · Fame has come suddenly, and Peyton is finding it hard to grasp.grasp that: · The army had failed to grasp that their mission was to protect the navy's ships, not vice versa.
to understand something that is not clear or easy to understand, especially by spending time thinking about it: · Police are trying to make sense of a bizarre note left by the murderer.· There is so much information that it is difficult to make sense of it all.
informal to understand what someone is telling you or what they want you to do, especially after they have told you several times: · Even the Democrats got the message: voters are concerned about taxes.get the message that: · He doesn't seem to get the message that he's not welcome here.
spoken to understand a situation or arrangement, especially one that someone is explaining to you: · I get the picture. You want me to say you were at my house last night.· We don't want any trouble tonight. Do you get the picture?
British informal to understand something that is difficult or complicated: · I just couldn't get my head round geometry at school.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY
I know all about David and what he’s been up to! Let me know (=tell me) what time you’re planning to arrive. I thought you’d want to know immediately. If you must know, I was with James last night (=used when you are angry because someone wants to know something). How did he know (=how did he find information about) our names? ‘I’m divorced, as you know,’ she said briefly. How do you know (=what makes you sure) he won’t do it again? I think he’s still living in Chicago, but I don’t know for sure. As far as I know, they’re arriving on Saturday (=used when you think something is true but are not sure). I doubt I’ll win, but you never know (=used when you cannot be sure about something, but something good might happen). I don’t know him very well. We’re still getting to know each other really. Hepburn is best known for (=people are most likely to be familiar with) her roles in classic films such as ‘My Fair Lady’. The museum outlines the development of the city as we know it today. Does he know the way to your house (=know how to get there)? I grew up here; I know the place like the back of my hand (=I know it very well). I only know her by sight (=I often see her but have not really spoken to her). She didn’t know me from Adam (=she did not know me at all), but she was really helpful. Sometimes it’s better not to ask too many questions, if you know what I mean. ‘I just felt so tired.’ ‘Yeah, I know what you mean.’ (=I understand, because I have had the same experience) I should have known it wouldn’t be easy. I might have known (=I am annoyed but not surprised) you would take that attitude. I know exactly how you feel. He knew full well that what he was doing was dangerous. Just take it. No one will ever know. ‘That’s not what I mean, and you know it,’ he protested. I wouldn’t have come if I’d known you were so busy. Little did she know (=she did not know) that years later she would have her own pool and luxury apartment in Florida. She knew nothing of what had happened earlier that day. Politicians know all about the power of language. I don’t know the first thing about (=I know nothing about) looking after children. I don’t really know what I’m doing (=I do not have enough skill and experience to deal with something) when it comes to cars. The staff are dedicated people who clearly know what they are talking about. She knew from experience that exams made her very nervous. a decent manager who knows the ropes (=has a lot of experience) My cousin knows a thing or two (=knows a lot) about golf. It’s just prejudice from educated people who should know better. Eva knew better than to interrupt one of Mark’s jokes. Nitrous oxide is commonly known as laughing gas. I’ve never known (=have never experienced) this to happen in all the time I’ve worked here. I’ve never known him to shout (=he never shouts). You know what? I think he’s lonely.COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES He’s perhaps best known for his role in ‘Midnight Cowboy’. Potter is better known for his TV work. Rain, snow, and hail are collectively known as precipitation. I’m sorry about that – I don’t know what came over me (=I do not know why I behaved in that way). It’s comforting to know I can call my parents any time. Mandy was curious to know what happened. I demand to know what’s going on. Bistro Roti is a deservedly popular restaurant. Kiribati, formerly known as the Gilbert Islands The plants are generally regarded as weeds. a generally accepted view God knows what she’s doing in there. It was hard to see what else we could have done. It’s hard to believe that anyone would say something like that. He was gone before they knew what had hit them (=realized what had happened). It may interest you to know that a number of scholarships are available. I’d be very interested to hear your opinion. It will be interesting to see what happens when he gets a bit older. an internationally famous sculptor She was intrigued to know what he planned to do next. those who have the know-how to exploit the technology to the fullest the know-how needed by today’s practising lawyer No other company had the technical know-how to deal with the disaster. This is one of the worst diseases known to man. ‘I didn’t really like him.’ 'I know what you mean, I didn’t get on with him either (=used to say you understand and have had the same experience). We know nothing about her family. I don’t know her personally, but I like her work. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is popularly known as the Mormon Church. It is difficult to know precisely how much impact the changes will have. He works repairing streets, and knows the ropes when it comes to safety. It had surprised me to find how fussy he was about some things. the phenomena variously known as ‘mass culture’, ‘popular culture’, or the ‘public arts’
I know all about David and what he’s been up to! Let me know (=tell me) what time you’re planning to arrive. I thought you’d want to know immediately. If you must know, I was with James last night (=used when you are angry because someone wants to know something). How did he know (=how did he find information about) our names? ‘I’m divorced, as you know,’ she said briefly. How do you know (=what makes you sure) he won’t do it again? I think he’s still living in Chicago, but I don’t know for sure. As far as I know, they’re arriving on Saturday (=used when you think something is true but are not sure). I doubt I’ll win, but you never know (=used when you cannot be sure about something, but something good might happen). I don’t know him very well. We’re still getting to know each other really. Hepburn is best known for (=people are most likely to be familiar with) her roles in classic films such as ‘My Fair Lady’. The museum outlines the development of the city as we know it today. Does he know the way to your house (=know how to get there)? I grew up here; I know the place like the back of my hand (=I know it very well). I only know her by sight (=I often see her but have not really spoken to her). She didn’t know me from Adam (=she did not know me at all), but she was really helpful. (=used to say that you expect someone to behave in a particular way because you know them well) Knowing Sumi, my note’s probably still in her pocket. He’ll be chatting up the women, if I know Ron!
Knowing Sumi, my note’s probably still in her pocket. He’ll be chatting up the women, if I know Ron! (=used to ask if someone understands or has the same feeling as you) It’s nice to have a change sometimes. Know what I mean?
It’s nice to have a change sometimes. Know what I mean? Sometimes it’s better not to ask too many questions, if you know what I mean. ‘I just felt so tired.’ ‘Yeah, I know what you mean.’ (=I understand, because I have had the same experience) I should have known it wouldn’t be easy. I might have known (=I am annoyed but not surprised) you would take that attitude. I know exactly how you feel. He knew full well that what he was doing was dangerous. Just take it. No one will ever know. ‘That’s not what I mean, and you know it,’ he protested. I wouldn’t have come if I’d known you were so busy. Little did she know (=she did not know) that years later she would have her own pool and luxury apartment in Florida. She knew nothing of what had happened earlier that day. Politicians know all about the power of language. I don’t know the first thing about (=I know nothing about) looking after children. I don’t really know what I’m doing (=I do not have enough skill and experience to deal with something) when it comes to cars. The staff are dedicated people who clearly know what they are talking about. She knew from experience that exams made her very nervous. (=be good at and know all you should about a job or subject)
a decent manager who knows the ropes (=has a lot of experience) My cousin knows a thing or two (=knows a lot) about golf. (=be able to sing a song, play a tune, say a poem etc because you have learned it) Do you know all the words to ‘As Time Goes By’?
Do you know all the words to ‘As Time Goes By’? It’s just prejudice from educated people who should know better. Eva knew better than to interrupt one of Mark’s jokes. Nitrous oxide is commonly known as laughing gas. I’ve never known (=have never experienced) this to happen in all the time I’ve worked here. I’ve never known him to shout (=he never shouts). You know what? I think he’s lonely.· I’d really like to be a famous actor.
· Do you know Helen’s address?· No one seems to have his address.
· Put up your hand if you know the answer.
· The famous author Henry James lived here.
He’s perhaps best known for his role in ‘Midnight Cowboy’. Potter is better known for his TV work. Rain, snow, and hail are collectively known as precipitation. I’m sorry about that – I don’t know what came over me (=I do not know why I behaved in that way). It’s comforting to know I can call my parents any time.· At present is there is no known cure for this virus.
Mandy was curious to know what happened.· You know damn well what I’m talking about.
I demand to know what’s going on. Bistro Roti is a deservedly popular restaurant. (=know how two things are different)· If you don’t know the difference between two words, your dictionary can help.
· Seven copies of the original book are still known to exist.
· Janet knew from experience that love doesn't always last.
· We do not yet know the extent of the damage.
· It is a well-known fact that new cars lose a lot of their value in the first year.
· It is a little-known fact that the actor was born in London.
(=used to say that something is definitely true)· I know for a fact that she is older than me.
Kiribati, formerly known as the Gilbert Islands The plants are generally regarded as weeds. a generally accepted view God knows what she’s doing in there. It was hard to see what else we could have done. It’s hard to believe that anyone would say something like that. He was gone before they knew what had hit them (=realized what had happened).· He wanted to know the identity of his real father.
It may interest you to know that a number of scholarships are available. I’d be very interested to hear your opinion. It will be interesting to see what happens when he gets a bit older. an internationally famous sculptor She was intrigued to know what he planned to do next. those who have the know-how to exploit the technology to the fullest the know-how needed by today’s practising lawyer No other company had the technical know-how to deal with the disaster.· The Eiffel Tower is probably the most famous landmark in Paris.
· He had lived in Japan, but did not know the language.
(=know what your qualities or abilities will allow you to do)· Know your limitations, and don't exercise too hard or you'll get injured.
(=not known about by many people) a little known corner of the world
a little known corner of the world This is one of the worst diseases known to man. spoken (=used to check that someone understands you) I want to buy her something really special, if you know what I mean. We’re still married but living apart in the same house, if you see what I mean.
I want to buy her something really special, if you know what I mean. We’re still married but living apart in the same house, if you see what I mean. ‘I didn’t really like him.’ 'I know what you mean, I didn’t get on with him either (=used to say you understand and have had the same experience).· Do you know the meaning of the word ‘paraphrase’?
· His first name is Tom, but I don’t know his last name.
(=know their name)· The headteacher knew all the children by name.
(=used to say that something is strange because it has never happened before) Max had never been known to leave home without telling anyone.
Max had never been known to leave home without telling anyone. We know nothing about her family. (=used when you think someone should behave more sensibly)· He’s old enough to know better, but he went and did it anyway!
I don’t know her personally, but I like her work.· We all hear the phrase "greenhouse gasses", but do you know what it really means?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is popularly known as the Mormon Church. It is difficult to know precisely how much impact the changes will have. (=used when you do not understand someone’s behaviour)· For reasons best known to herself, she decided to sell the house.
He works repairing streets, and knows the ropes when it comes to safety. (=about someone else)· You can tell Tom that I know his secret.
· It's important to know your strengths as well as your weaknesses.
It had surprised me to find how fussy he was about some things.· At last I knew the truth about my father’s death.
the phenomena variously known as ‘mass culture’, ‘popular culture’, or the ‘public arts’· Do you know the way to Birkleigh?
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADVERB· He was best known for rebuilding the Milagres Chapel in Machico.· But she is best known as one of the Sumerian demons of storm and night.· And in most cases, mum and dad do know best.· For reasons best known to them, they offered the case to me.· Until last year, she was known best as the less successful sister of Margaret Drabble.· Maybe Jack knew best, after all.· Some one here once commented that she gives the impression she always seems to know best.· Which, of course, is how the play is best known.
· She should have known better than to raise that kind of topic.· If their pediatrician is telling them to wait, that their child will outgrow it, the parents know better.· But his elder brother John thinks that he knew better what the score was than he ever let on.· But La Paca was better known for her claim to a higher, unearthly power.· But there were some rules he knew better than she ever would.· A man is much better known through painting than through photography.
· We don't know exactly what, that's true.· Humans know exactly what is going to happen but they can not resist.· The Ghosts don't know exactly what is beyond the doors.· There are indications that at least the local psychiatric community knew exactly what was going on, and did nothing.· Now we know exactly what she means.· I still do not know exactly what kind of place Lehrte was.· Come to think of it, I never know exactly how much I really feel for him.· I know exactly what it means.
· He could not know how his words had affected her.· Teaching history meant above all knowing how to narrate it.· If he compiled this piece of information himself we have the right to know how he did it.· The guy does know how to blend into the woodwork.· The seamen could not see us and did not know how many men they were fighting.· In the end, I think, they did not know how to riot.· But they know how to party.· The Fall River Line knew how to equip their ships.
· I will never know how I got through that day.· He never knew himself to mistake it.· I never knew it was like that.· Speaking of taking stock advice from Warren Buffett or anybody else, remember that you never know when that person sells.· You never knew my master, the Lord Godolphin, and I never knew yours.· The whole idea is that Morrissey never knows a thing.· The point was that one would never know, now.· I never knew this until he said it, but I suppose he saw some of my performances and caught the bug.
· Do you know how well known she is?· And there was the great Lord Byron, a powerful name, a man well known to espouse the cause of freedom.· The play is well known to scholars and its authorship is still very much in doubt.· We will visit the Sforza-Castle, the magnificent gothic Cathedral and the well known La Scala opera house.· Its element is mind, and its place, well known, is a little above and between the brows.· The details are not well known, nor is the general picture clear.· I personally was born into a poor family and know well the rigors and hardship that accompany genuine need.
· I knew where to look too.· I even knew where we would sit down for half a day.· And he didn't know where to find her to let her know.· My brother and his wife had lived through so much they hardly knew where to begin to tell their story.· If you are going somewhere then you have to know where you are going in order to point in the right direction.· For this reason, you should know where things go wrong.· So who would know where Lily's dippy daughter was being kept?· The men did not know where Pala bhai was.
· Don't know why we have to have partners.· Now we know why veteran Celtics guard Dee Brown asked to be traded.· Flora roared, without knowing why, just knowing something was violently the matter.· I don't know why anyone bothers to plant boxwood when this is available.· As taxpayers we are entitled to know why intelligence services failed to spot signs of an end to the Cold War.· You know why you wrote it.· I don't know why he went in there because he wouldn't find any stronger restorative than ginger pop.· The caterpillars do not know why they rock their bodies, much less why they do it in unison.
NOUN· I don't know the answer to all these questions.· I quickly found out that knowing the right answer was much easier than selling it.· Perhaps Mr Adams knows he has no answer.· Do you know that the answer to all your questions, all your problems, is actually contained within its glorious covers.· The body clock has been studied very little in older volunteers and so we do not know the answer to this.· I did not know the answer then, and I do not know it now.· If for any reason station staff do not know the answer, call us.
· But you didn't know my name.· Residents here know the names of other witnesses, too.· Now the usher is a kid I know and his name is Bruce.· Others prefer men willing to be known, at least by name, to the child.· Students know it by different names in different towns: freaking, grinding, jacking, booty dancing, the nasty.· It's no accident that the stunning national museum in Wellington is known by the Maori name of Te Papa.· At least I finally knew what our real name was, and from what stock we sprang.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► know somebody/something as something► I’ve known somebody/something to do something► you know/do you know► I don’t know how/why etc► I don’t know about you, but ...► I don’t know how to thank you/repay you► how should I know?/how am I to know?/how do I know?► how was I to know?/how did I know?► Heaven/God/who/goodness knows!► knowing my luck► (well,) what do you know?► if you know what’s good for you► you know who/what► let it be known/make it known (that)► not know what hit you► somebody knows best► you will be delighted/pleased etc to know (that)► it’s ... , Jim, but not as we know itPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► not know someone from Adam► not know your arse from your elbow► know something backwards► know something backwards and forwards► not know/care beans (about somebody/something)► know which side your bread is buttered on► know/find out/learn etc something to your cost► darned if I know► better the devil you know (than the devil you don’t)► as/so far as I know/I can remember/I can tell/I can see etc► God (only) knows► God (only) knows► the left hand does not know what the right hand is doing► the left hand doesn’t know what the right hand is doing► you never know► I can’t rightly say/don’t rightly know► not know your own strength► you don’t know when you’re well-off► don’t know/can’t tell etc which is which
- Before Sinai, one could argue, the people had the excuse of not knowing any better.
- As he was a thoroughly professional journalist, he already knew the media inside out.
- He stutters, but he caddied for me for five years and he knows the game inside out.
- I know this one Inside out!
- Of course, if everyone knew their partners inside out, there's a good chance no-one would ever plight their troth.
- Start off by adding every email address you know, and click on all the options until you know it inside out.
- They know their stuff inside out, but most importantly they also look like they are having a whale of a time.
- And he knew his way around.
- Bike testers these days tend to know their way around a track.
- For he is convinced he knows his way around better than anyone else on earth.
- For those who have used soft chalk pastels and know their way around the tints I would advise loose pastels.
- Fortunately, I knew my way around cars.
- He knows his way around the course and, with any luck, I felt the ground would come up soft.
- The people had been friendly, and she had known her way around.
- They seemed to know their way around; at least one of them must have been familiar with the layout.
- He makes himself known with a tiny, metallic clink-clink-clink from within the bushes.
- Jaq daydreamed about a subsequent year when Baal Firenze had first made himself known.
- My superior self was working out a way to approach and make myself known.
- To leave was to admit defeat in this peculiar ritual of making myself known.
- With that you will make yourself known.
- Your five minutes only start when you make yourself known.
- I wouldn't know a French wine from a California wine.
- This species is not known to be vicious.
- It is not known to be propagated vegetatively at all and can only be reproduced from seeds.
- Bob looks exactly like him, you know? Could be his son.
- So I, you know, spent some time cleaning up afterward.
- We saw Nick, you know, Melissa's husband, downtown.
- You know what I was going to do? Go over and see Barbara.
- "It is really hot out there today." "I know. It's miserable."
- I know! Let's turn the couch this way and then the table will fit.
- I know, I know, we should have called and made reservations.
- All I know is that I am on my way out.
- And I know what you're thinking.
- I know the why of this, but I know it only now as I write these words.
- My two chips were ready in my sweaty palm. I knew I had him on toast.
- No Francis, anywhere. I knew I was alone now.
- No one, as far as I know, has ever before cut away the wing of a submerged big jet.
- "I couldn't live there.'' "Oh, I don't know. It might not be so bad.''
- "Where's the nearest restroom?" "I don't know."
- Oh, I don't know, we could meet at 3 or 4 o'clock.
- "He showed up late again." "Wouldn't you know it."
- You don't know how long I've waited to hear you say that!
- "When's he coming back?" "I wouldn't know."
- I'm not going to listen to Martha. What does she know?
- My chaplain snorts in derision but what does he know?
- But Fen wasn't to know that.
- But Sally was not to know that and she was mortified.
- Lynsey wasn't to know that, and Courtney's boast added to his aura of respectability.
- Only Janet wasn't to know, because she'd feel awkward if she did.
- She was not to know that Tina, sticking to her principles, had long ago slept with her cousin Jarvis.
- The blood on my face was not mine - though she was not to know this.
- The joint Chiefs were not to know.
- You weren't to know, but the boy's simple.
- "Are you sure there's no salt in it?" "Of course. I ought to know, I made it."
- But if it meant this I ought to know it.
- Christmas is coming and he thinks I ought to know about some little joints called Tiffany's and Bloomingdale's.
- I've had nine, so I ought to know.
- I opened the window, and for all I know it's still open.
- It cost millions. It could be billions for all I know.
- And they probably have cameras on it for all I know.
- During the war for all I know?
- He might even be her source, for all I knew.
- Snow and ice were deadly for all I knew, never having driven on either.
- The real losers will, for all I know, eat dirt.
- There were a few people around, polishing and sweeping, and maybe spreading incense for all I knew.
- You might be from the newspapers, for all I know.
- "Did anyone call for me?" "Not that I know of."
- Answer, not that I know of.
- If we go there's no knowing.
- Otherwise there's no knowing just how many more he would have killed.
- If you're going to start an argument with Alex I don't want to know about it.
- You'd think the government would be concerned about people sleeping rough, but they just don't want to know.
- And accustomed now to not knowing why, did not want to know it.
- Holmes did not want to know too much about the people in his cases.
- I did not want to know what was going on in the world.
- I did not want to know.
- She never asked because she did not want to know if they all had to be burned.
- The employers, although they are expected to contribute, do not want to know.
- Whatever it was, Lisa did not want to know.
- Just so you know the score, Walt, Ann's going to be working with me from now on.
- And I didn't break any hearts - they all knew the score.
- Just so you know the score, Walt.
- Like music, the better one knows the score, the greater the delight and reward one gains from reading it.
- No great discoveries, but at least he knew the score.
- Some bisexual relationships work perfectly well as long as everyone knows the score.
- Valdez knew the score -- the deal was indefensible.
- You know the score, give the urban kids a slice of country life.
- Parents should know better than their children, but they don't always necessarily do.
- The man said it was an 18 carat diamond, but Dina knew better.
- But there were some rules he knew better than she ever would.
- Even people who should know better have ended up paying a price for denying what they are feeling.
- Guess he should have known better.
- Now you know better, thass all.
- Then I would have known better.
- Time you knew better, young lady.
- Yamazaki seems unconcerned by the fact that he's taking on problems that have defeated many who should have known better.
- I'll get back to the kitchen then - I know my place!
- Everyone knew their place in the family, and Dad's was usually behind the newspaper.
- George W.. Bush knows his place in the 1996 presidential race.
- He knew his place, Shamlou mused contentedly.
- It ought to know its place, which ought not to be No. 1.
- Mitch and I know our place.
- She did not love him, but he knew his place.
- There was a lot to be said for knowing your place if you wanted help from Bloomsbury House.
- We know our place in this world.
- And as you know, greed knows no bounds.
- As the men filed into Faneuil Hall, in solid columns, the enthusiasm knew no bounds...
- Faith in benign science knew no bounds.
- His business enterprise knew no bounds.
- It was once again proved that the credulity of trainees knew no bounds.
- Only in later centuries, when Constant Drachenfels' daring knew no bounds, did the famed, fabled horrors begin.
- Sarah's pride in her daughter knew no bounds.
- Spring break will be here before you know it.
- You'll be fully recovered before you know it.
- You offer to iron his shirt and before you know it, he expects you to do all the housework.
- He saves his money, before you know it he owns a car.
- It happens before you know it.
- It seemed a long way away but before we knew it we were paying the last of the deposits.
- One thing kept leading to another, and before I knew it a small industry had been set in motion.
- Take time with people, and you will see success in your business before you know it.
- They claim that news is just around the corner, and that it will be on us before we know it.
- Christopher would tell me all sorts of things I would never know otherwise.
- If you know different contact: who would like to get this year's books completed.
- Just another wench, he told himself angrily, but deep down he knew different.
- Now, presumably, they know different.
- The answer is probably no - but do you know otherwise?
- The public may think the law applies only to the most dangerous offenders, but inmates know otherwise.
- We knew otherwise - and told you so on October 26, 1990.
- We teach them, you know different things.
- I'm in my mid-thirties and ought to know my own mind by now, but I'm scared of getting married.
- Though not yet 15, Sara knows her own mind, and has already decided on a career.
- All of which suggests a person who knows his own mind and makes his own decisions.
- He hardly knew his own mind, they said candidly among their own intimates.
- People often didn't know their own minds.
- Shirley giggled and said I was a woman who knew her own mind, wasn't I, Jim?
- You don't know your own mind.
- Anyone can claim to have all the answers.
- But I don't have all the answers.
- He was a modest and unassuming man who never gave the impression that he knew all the answers.
- In the current situation many issues as yet remain unresolved and we do not have all the answers.
- We are supposed to have all the answers.
- Will that have all the answers?
- I know nothing's ever going to happen - I can feel it in my bones.
- And he was innocent of murder; she felt it in her bones.
- He could feel it in his bones, and he knew he could trust the feeling.
- He felt sure in his bones that their man would try something tonight.
- I can feel it in my bones.
- She could feel it in her bones.
- Something was very wrong, she could feel it in her bones, but what was it?
- The fog horn started booming, a deep, thrilling vibration that Madame Astarti could feel resonate in her bones.
- Paul's love for her knew no bounds.
- And as you know, greed knows no bounds.
- As the men filed into Faneuil Hall, in solid columns, the enthusiasm knew no bounds...
- Faith in benign science knew no bounds.
- His business enterprise knew no bounds.
- It was once again proved that the credulity of trainees knew no bounds.
- Only in later centuries, when Constant Drachenfels' daring knew no bounds, did the famed, fabled horrors begin.
- Sarah's pride in her daughter knew no bounds.
- Andre's so in love he doesn't know whether he's coming or going.
- Bradley doesn't know diddly about running his own business.
- I have a sudden urge to touch her, to hold her, to tell her I know how she feels.
- I knew how he felt about me -- a short blind boy who hated leather basketballs.
- I know how he feels about me!
- I know how you feel about it ... You would rather wait - wait till we're married.
- I know how you feel, Doyle thought.
- I know how you feel, they're all or nothing.
- You ran a decent campaign, John, and I know how it feels to lose.
- "She makes me so mad I could scream!" "I know the feeling."
- And yet these hills are the first I knew and loved.
- It was the first I knew about it.
- All I had to do was got to know his taste in food.
- Come to think of it, he'd seemed rather a decent chap, some one it might be worth getting to know.
- He got to know Bill Clinton quite well when they were together at Oxford as Rhodes scholars.
- I would like to get to know customers well 8.
- It was one of Brian's three daughters, Karen, who got to know Kirsty.
- Mrs Nowak and Taczek must have got to know most of the truth and stuck by the cover story.
- She had seen a leaflet about the YCs and thought that this would provide a good way of getting to know people.
- So I got, I sort of got to know her.
- If you know what's good for you, you'll do what I tell you.
- You'll just keep your mouth shut about this if you know what's good for you!
- The last bridge cost $30 million, and goodness knows how much a new one will cost.
- At the mercy of wild animals and insects and snakes and goodness knows what horrors!
- But goodness knows, Nona had had her say there.
- For aficionados those shortcuts are still there - it's still Control+KQX to quit - goodness knows why.
- I suppose that ferrets are no more unusual as pets than rats, snakes and goodness only knows what else.
- It seems you've survived, goodness knows how, for really it would not matter if you did not.
- They took furnishings, china, sofas, televisions and goodness only knows what else.
- Though goodness knows why they think they have to do it so early in the morning.
- I'll have you know I speak six languages.
- I've never taken the easy way out, I 'll have you know.
- I 'll have you know this is the very latest design.
- What a great meal! You certainly know the way to a man's heart!
- And heavens knows, once launched it's all too hard to turn back and look again for the missed trace.
- He starts a conversation and ends up heaven knows where.
- If it isn't, heaven knows who will ride to the rescue of the firm.
- Kenyon must see it through or heaven knows what will become of the station.
- People live together - Peter and Miranda are Bohemian enough, heaven knows.
- People wave from the bank and shout our names; heaven knows who they are!
- What effect it will have on the result, heaven only knows.
- As he was a thoroughly professional journalist, he already knew the media inside out.
- He stutters, but he caddied for me for five years and he knows the game inside out.
- I know this one Inside out!
- Of course, if everyone knew their partners inside out, there's a good chance no-one would ever plight their troth.
- Start off by adding every email address you know, and click on all the options until you know it inside out.
- They know their stuff inside out, but most importantly they also look like they are having a whale of a time.
- When the whole cake fell off the table, I didn't know whether to laugh or cry.
- I know my limits, and I'm not a great runner.
- Ford says she may be good at her job, but she knows her limits.
- The Profitboss does so much and no more, knowing his limits.
- These lunchtime drinkers know their limits, or at least most of them do.
- But little did he know at the time, how soon he'd need it.
- Even Protestants - and the good Lord knows how mistaken they are - have something to hold on to.
- I do mean it! Lord knows I read plenty of nonfiction books.
- The Lord knows I did my best.
- The Lord knows why she hung them where she would see them every time she looked up.
- The Lord only knows what will happen in the regular season and playoffs next year.
- We need heroes. Lord knows, kids need them today.
- When I was a young houseman I - well, enjoyed a hectic love-life. Lord knows how I managed it.
- You realize there was a major pile-up? Lord knows how many vehicles - all of them following us, I suspect.
- As we will soon see, the inability to make oneself understood properly was at the root of the crisis in Vicos.
- But only one side was making itself heard.
- Hardly a practicable solution when she didn't even know if she could make herself understood.
- He makes himself known with a tiny, metallic clink-clink-clink from within the bushes.
- I yelled to make myself heard above the deafening roar of the wind and the sea.
- To leave was to admit defeat in this peculiar ritual of making myself known.
- Yet lay people had almost no way of making themselves heard in Rome.
- If you are overweight, then you know what it means to be in emotional pain.
- Mike Hardware was the kind of private eye who didn't know the meaning of fear.
- A dictionary is useless unless one already knows the meanings of many words.
- For instance, we assume he would satisfy our behavioural criteria for being some one who knows the meaning of the word bank.
- He had a lot of things representing other things that no one but he knew the meaning of.
- Men like Luke Hunter didn't know the meaning of permanence - or fidelity.
- Regarding exercises: before attempting to answer a question do make sure you know the meaning of all the words in it!
- So I know the meaning of credit.
- Some were struggling behind-but they did not really know the meaning of struggling.
- Willi didn't know the meaning of restraint, not in any aspect of his life.
- All those years I might have known her!
- Although I might have known you'd arrive just as drinks were being ordered!
- Dear little Papa, as I might have known!
- If you'd had a big fat bottom I might have guessed.
- It was nothing I might have guessed.
- Of course, I might have known that you'd have some clever way of dealing with everything, though.
- Ooh! I might have known it!
- Some years before, I might have guessed Bond's enigmatic presence in the scene.
- April 14, if you must know.
- But I was extremely jealous of him, if you must know.
- But if you must know, Mrs. Jewkes was present.
- I had a bad dose of influenza, if you must know.
- It's my sister Rose's birthday on Sunday, if you must know.
- More than enough, if you must know.
- Access to the manufacturing process is on a strictly need-to-know basis.
- I never knew you played the guitar!
- And I never knew he took my advice about Eliot so seriously.
- As I once told you, I never knew where we were heading when I first drove out the Anacreonians.
- But I never knew from one week to the next if there would be any money.
- I sort of dabble my foot in it like it's a puddle. I never knew Marie was married.
- I was brought up in a pit village near Bishop Auckland and I never knew my father.
- Those men have to stand that over and over again. I never knew it was like that.
- You and your father. I never knew two people more alike.
- You said they stole your milk. I never knew what it was that messed him up.
- And the next thing I knew, I was here.
- But the next thing she knew she was crying.
- He slipped something in my wine and the next thing I knew was that we were on the Continent.
- I fell asleep, and the next thing I knew, some one was waking me.
- I had hardly dated, and the next thing I knew I was getting married.
- I must have fallen asleep, for the next thing I knew I was woken by the ringing of the telephone.
- I started to run and the next thing I knew I was lying on the kitchen table.
- Well, it's nice to know the ad is working.
- I know four-wheel drive cars rarely go into the woods, but it's nice to know they can.
- Global warming is otherwise known as the greenhouse effect.
- Area 17, for example, is otherwise known as the primary visual area.
- During that pilgrimage, they lived in tents and booths, otherwise known as sukkot.
- It is otherwise known as delegated legislation.
- It was a control on monetary hanky-panky, otherwise known as inflation.
- The best explanation for this is the so-called rebound effect, otherwise known as acute tolerance.
- And I didn't break any hearts - they all knew the score.
- Just so you know the score, Walt.
- Like music, the better one knows the score, the greater the delight and reward one gains from reading it.
- No great discoveries, but at least he knew the score.
- Some bisexual relationships work perfectly well as long as everyone knows the score.
- Valdez knew the score -- the deal was indefensible.
- You know the score, give the urban kids a slice of country life.
- What does Ron see in her?
- But Catholic bishops have let both parties know where they stand.
- Do you know where you stand?
- I am only ensuring we both know where we stand.
- Imagine a man in public office that everybody knew where he stood.
- My father died, I didn't know where I stood on the team, we lost a lot of games.
- She knew where he stood over Grunte.
- Well, now she knew where she stood.
- You knew where you stood with the Cold War.
- Look, I know what I'm talking about because I was there when it happened.
- Pilger knows what he is talking about, having spent several years as a reporter in Vietnam.
- Rolim seemed to know what he was talking about, but his theories raised some questions for me.
- Wayne, you don't know what the hell you're talking about.
- And those who hint that this approach increases the guilt of the patient simply do not know what they are talking about.
- But the debate will be between two insiders who know what they are talking about.
- But we ensure we first know what we are talking about.
- Engineers should only offer an opinion if they know what they are talking about.
- They are not the only people who know what they are talking about when it comes to children and education.
- They have demonstrated publicly, through close scrutiny by their peers, that they know what they are talking about.
- After all, I am not so different from anyone else, if the truth be known.
- He could never, if the truth were told, stand against his wife.
- He looked lonely, if the truth were told.
- I bet they did it worse than us if the truth was known.
- I puzzle a lot, if the truth be known.
- I suppose if the truth was known, I was narked at being pushed around.
- Nearly thirteen and a half if the truth be known.
- You'd rather have a day out at York racecourse than at Headingley if truth were known, wouldn't you?
- I asked them, and this is what they told me. I just wanted to know did you know any more.
- In the ambulance, I just wanted to know the damage.
- The truth of it was, as miserable as things were, I just wanted to say I had been there.
- I know perfectly well that metastases are not just a characteristic of malignant cells, spreading from organ to organ.
- In everyday life we talk about things being good and bad, and we know perfectly well what we mean.
- Oh, I glory in inconsistencies, as you know full well.
- Ought we to think less of Johnson for agreeing because he knew full well that he could influence Boswell?
- She knew perfectly well he didn't trust her.
- The public know full well that the Labour party taxes and spends, taxes and spends.
- You know perfectly well I can't.
- You know perfectly well that women get depressed at - at certain times.
- And I wish I knew why.
- But being so weak seems wrong now too. I wish I knew judo.
- Don't ask me what I do want. I wish I knew.
- He was a sad person underneath. I wish I knew what he was so sad about.
- I do know that it was because of an argument that he left. I wish I knew more.
- I won't listen to you any more. I wish I knew what time it was.
- Men clustered and chattered lively in groups. I wished I knew how to smoke.
- Very grand. I wish I knew where it is now.
WORD FAMILYadjectiveknowingknowledgeableknown ≠ unknownnounknowledgethe unknownadverbknowingly ≠ unknowinglyknowledgeablyverbknow
1have information [intransitive, transitive] to have information about something: Who knows the answer? There are instructions telling you everything you need to know. Didn’t you know that?know what/how/where etc Do you know what time it is? I don’t know where to go.know (something/nothing etc) about something I need to know more about the job before I decide whether to apply for it. Little is known about the author’s childhood. I know all about David and what he’s been up to!know (something/nothing etc) of something I wonder if he knew of the plan? Do you know of any good restaurants in the area? You know nothing of this business.know (that) We know that greenhouse gases can affect the climate. Let me know (=tell me) what time you’re planning to arrive. I thought you’d want to know immediately. If you must know, I was with James last night (=used when you are angry because someone wants to know something).without somebody/somebody’s knowing He slipped out of the house without his parents knowing (=secretly). How did he know (=how did he find information about) our names?as you/we know ‘I’m divorced, as you know,’ she said briefly.be known to do something Smoking is known to increase a person’s risk of developing lung cancer.GRAMMARIn more formal English, you say it is known that or it is known who/why/what etc: · It is known that the drug causes infertility.· It is not known how many people were killed.2be sure [intransitive, transitive] to be sure about something: ‘Are you seeing Jim tomorrow?’ ‘I don’t know yet.’know (that) I know I won’t get the job. Ruth knew that she couldn’t continue in the relationship for much longer.know what/why/how etc I know exactly what you need!know if/whether The boy stared at him uncertainly, not knowing whether to believe him. I don’t know if I’ll be able to come.knowing (that) She forced herself to go out, knowing that she would feel more depressed if she stayed at home. How do you know (=what makes you sure) he won’t do it again?know somebody/something to be something It’s a story that I know to be true. I think he’s still living in Chicago, but I don’t know for sure. As far as I know, they’re arriving on Saturday (=used when you think something is true but are not sure). I doubt I’ll win, but you never know (=used when you cannot be sure about something, but something good might happen).► see thesaurus at sure3be familiar with somebody/something [transitive] to be familiar with a person, place etc: I’ve known her for twenty years. Are you really thinking of leaving Kevin for a guy you barely know? Do you know the nightclub on the corner of Maine Street? I don’t know him very well. We’re still getting to know each other really.know somebody from something I know her from school.know somebody as something Many people knew him as a local businessman. Hepburn is best known for (=people are most likely to be familiar with) her roles in classic films such as ‘My Fair Lady’. The museum outlines the development of the city as we know it today. Does he know the way to your house (=know how to get there)? I grew up here; I know the place like the back of my hand (=I know it very well). I only know her by sight (=I often see her but have not really spoken to her). She didn’t know me from Adam (=she did not know me at all), but she was really helpful.knowing somebody/if I know somebody (=used to say that you expect someone to behave in a particular way because you know them well) Knowing Sumi, my note’s probably still in her pocket. He’ll be chatting up the women, if I know Ron!4realize [intransitive, transitive] to realize, find out about, or understand something: She knew the risks involved. Hardly knowing what he was doing, Nick pulled out a cigarette.know (that) Suddenly she knew that something was terribly wrong.know how/what/why etc I didn’t know how difficult it would be.know to do something She knows not to tell anyone.(do you) know what I mean? (=used to ask if someone understands or has the same feeling as you) It’s nice to have a change sometimes. Know what I mean?if you know what I mean Sometimes it’s better not to ask too many questions, if you know what I mean. ‘I just felt so tired.’ ‘Yeah, I know what you mean.’ (=I understand, because I have had the same experience) I should have known it wouldn’t be easy. I might have known (=I am annoyed but not surprised) you would take that attitude.know exactly/precisely I know exactly how you feel.know perfectly well/full well/only too well He knew full well that what he was doing was dangerous.somebody will never know/no one will ever know Just take it. No one will ever know. ‘That’s not what I mean, and you know it,’ he protested.if I had known/if I’d have known I wouldn’t have come if I’d known you were so busy. Little did she know (=she did not know) that years later she would have her own pool and luxury apartment in Florida. She knew nothing of what had happened earlier that day.5skill/experience [transitive] to have learned a lot about something or be skilful and experienced at doing something: I don’t know enough history to make a comparison. I taught him everything he knows. I know some French.know how to do something Do you know how to change a fuse?know about I have a friend who knows about antiques. Bessie knew nothing about football. Politicians know all about the power of language. I don’t know the first thing about (=I know nothing about) looking after children. I don’t really know what I’m doing (=I do not have enough skill and experience to deal with something) when it comes to cars. The staff are dedicated people who clearly know what they are talking about. She knew from experience that exams made her very nervous.know your job/subject/stuff (=be good at and know all you should about a job or subject) a decent manager who knows the ropes (=has a lot of experience) My cousin knows a thing or two (=knows a lot) about golf.know a song/tune/poem etc (=be able to sing a song, play a tune, say a poem etc because you have learned it) Do you know all the words to ‘As Time Goes By’?6know somebody’s qualities [transitive] to think that someone has particular qualitiesknow somebody as something I knew him as a hard-working, modest, and honest politician.know somebody for something In fact, I knew her for a tough-minded young woman.7know better a)to be wise or experienced enough not to do something: It’s just prejudice from educated people who should know better. Eva knew better than to interrupt one of Mark’s jokes. b)to know or think you know more than someone else: Everyone thought it was an accident. Only Dan knew better.8not know any better used to say that someone does something bad or stupid because they have not been told or taught that it is wrong: Drugs are being sold to children who don’t know any better.9know something inside out (also know something backwards British English, know something backwards and forwards American English) to be very familiar with something, especially because you have learned about it or because you have a lot of experience: Erikson knows the game inside out.10know your way around something a)to be so familiar with something that you are confident and good at using it: She knows her way around a wine list. b)to be familiar with a place so that you know where things are: I don’t know my way around the city yet.11make yourself known (to somebody) formal to introduce yourself to someone: After she had gone, Paul made himself known to Dr Heatherton.12recognize [transitive] to be able to recognize someone or something: Honestly, it had been so long, I hardly knew her.know somebody/something by something He looked very different, but I knew him by his voice.► see thesaurus at recognize13know somebody/something as something to have a particular name: The main street between the castle and the palace is known as ‘the Royal Mile’. Nitrous oxide is commonly known as laughing gas.14know something from something to understand the difference between one thing and another: Lloyd doesn’t even know his right from his left. At what age do children start to know right from wrong?15experience [transitive] to have experience of a particular feeling or situation: I don’t think he ever knew true happiness.know about I know all about being poor. I’ve never known (=have never experienced) this to happen in all the time I’ve worked here. I’ve never known him to shout (=he never shouts).16somebody/something is not known to be something or somebody/something has never been known to do something used to say there is no information that someone or something has particular qualities: This species is not known to be vicious.17I’ve known somebody/something to do something or somebody/something has been known to do something used to say that someone does something sometimes or that something happens sometimes, even if it is unusual: People have been known to drive 500 miles just to visit the shop. This type of fish has been known to live for 10 years or more.SPOKEN PHRASES18you know a)used to emphasize a statement: There’s no excuse, you know. b)used to make sure that someone understands what you are saying: I felt very upset, you know? c)used when you want to keep someone’s attention, but cannot think of what to say next: Well, you know, we’ve got a job to do here. d)used when you are explaining or describing something and want to give more information: That flower in the garden – you know, the purple one – what is it?19you know/do you know used to start talking about something, or make someone listen: You know, I sometimes feel I don’t know him at all. Do you know, when I went out this morning that man was still there.(do) you know what/something? You know what? I think he’s lonely.20I know a)used to agree with someone or to say that you feel the same way: ‘We have to talk about it, Rob.’ ‘Yeah, I know.’ b)used to say that you have suddenly had an idea, thought of a solution to a problem etc: I know! Let’s go out for a meal on your birthday. c)used to stop someone from interrupting because they have an opinion about what you are saying: It sounds silly, I know, but I will explain. I know, I know, I should have had the car checked out before now.21I don’t know a)used to say that you do not have the answer to a question: ‘When did they arrive?’ ‘I don’t know.’ b)used when you are not sure about something: ‘How old do you think he is?’ ‘Oh, I don’t know – sixty, seventy?’know what/how/whether etc I don’t know whether to call him.I don’t know that I don’t know that you need a passport for travelling within the EU. c)used to show that you disagree slightly with what has just been said: ‘I couldn’t live there.’ ‘Oh, I don’t know. It might not be so bad.’ d) British English used to show that you are slightly annoyed: Oh, I don’t know! You’re hopeless!22I don’t know how/why etc used to criticize someone: I don’t know how people could keep an animal in those conditions.23I don’t know about you, but ... used to give your opinion, decision, or suggestion when you are not sure that the person you are talking to will feel the same way: I don’t know about you, but I’ll be glad when Christmas is over.24I don’t know how to thank you/repay you used to thank someone25wouldn’t you know (it) used to say that something is not at all surprising: I was told in no uncertain terms that Helen, wouldn’t you know it, didn’t approve.26you don’t know used to emphasize how strong your feelings are: You don’t know how much I missed him.27I wouldn’t know used to say that you do not know the answer to something and that you are not the person who would know28what does somebody know? used to say angrily that someone’s opinion is wrong or that it is not important: What does she know about relationships?29how should I know?/how am I to know?/how do I know? used to say that it is not reasonable to expect that you should know something: ‘When will they be back?’ ‘How should I know?’30how was I to know?/how did I know? used as an excuse when something bad has happened: How was I to know that the file was confidential?31be not to know British English used to say that you do not mind that someone has made a mistake because they could not have avoided it: ‘Sorry, I didn’t realize you had guests.’ ‘That’s all right – you weren’t to know.’32I ought to know used to emphasize that you know about something because you made it, experienced it etc: ‘Are you sure there’s no sugar in this coffee?’ ‘Of course. I ought to know – I made it!’33for all I know used to emphasize that you do not know something and say that it is not important to you: I don’t know where she is. She could have been kidnapped for all I know.34not that I know of used to say that you think the answer is ‘no’ but there may be facts that you do not know about: ‘Did he call earlier?’ ‘Not that I know of.’35Heaven/God/who/goodness knows! a)used to say that you do not know the answer to a question: ‘Where do you think he’s disappeared to this time?’ ‘God knows!’ Goodness knows why she didn’t go herself. b)used to emphasize a statement: Goodness knows, I’ve never liked the woman, but I didn’t know how bad it would be to work with her.36knowing my luck used to say that you expect something bad will happen because you are usually unlucky: Knowing my luck, the train will be late.37(well,) what do you know? used to express surprise: Well, what do you know? Look who’s here!38if you know what’s good for you used to tell someone that they should do something, or something bad will happen: You’ll keep your mouth shut about this if you know what’s good for you!39you know who/what used to talk about someone or something without mentioning their name: I saw you know who yesterday.40there’s no knowing it is impossible to know: There was no knowing who might have read the letter.41let it be known/make it known (that) formal to make sure that people know something, especially by getting someone else to tell them: Farrar let it be known that he saw nothing wrong with the proposed solutions.42not want to know British English informal to not be interested in someone and what they want to say: She’d approached several model agencies but they just didn’t want to know.43know the score informal to understand a situation and all the good and bad features about it: I knew the score before I started the job.44not know what hit you informal to feel shocked and confused because something happens when you are not expecting it to: Poor man – I don’t think he knew what hit him.45know your place used to say that someone understands that they are less important than other people – usually used humorously: I know my place. I’ll get back to the kitchen!46know no bounds formal if a feeling or quality knows no bounds, it is not limited in any way: His enthusiasm knew no bounds.47somebody knows best used to say that someone should be obeyed or that their way of doing things should be accepted because they are experienced: She always thinks she knows best. I have always hated the attitude that ‘the doctor knows best’.48before you know it used to say that something happens very quickly and when you are not expecting it: You’ll be home before you know it.49know different/otherwise informal to know that the opposite of something is true: He told people he didn’t care about her, but deep down he knew different.50know your own mind to be confident and have firm ideas about what you want and like51you will be delighted/pleased etc to know (that) formal used before you give someone information that they will be pleased to hear: You will be pleased to know that we have accepted your offer.52it’s ... , Jim, but not as we know it informal humorous used to say that something is completely different from what we would normally expect something of its type to be: It’s the blues, Jim, but not as we know it. → the next thing I/she etc knew at next1(6)GRAMMAR: Using the progressive• Know is not used in the progressive. You say: · I know who that is.· Do you know this song? ✗Don’t say: I’m knowing who that is. | Are you knowing this song?• However, the participle knowing is sometimes used: · Knowing she would appreciate it, I offered to help.Grammar guide ‒ VERBSknow1 verbknow2 noun
knowknow2 noun Longman Language Activatorto know a fact or piece of information
to know a fact or piece of information: · I love this painting - do you know the name of the artist?· Jack's leaving. Didn't you know?know (that): · I knew he was ill, but I didn't realize he had cancer.know how/what/where etc: · Do you know where Andy is?know about: · How much do you know about the Moore case?know of: · I know of one company where members of staff get their meals free.know a lot about: · He knew a lot about baseball, and about how to pick great players.
also realise British to know that a situation exists, and especially to know how important or serious it is: · None of us realized the danger we were in.· "She's been promoted to chief executive." "Oh, really? I didn't realize."realize (that): · I realize that you are very busy, but could I talk to you for a few minutes?realize how/what/why: · Even Horton's family hadn't realized how sick he was, both physically and emotionally.
formal to know or begin to realize that a situation exists, often a serious one: be/become aware of: · I am aware of the risks involved in the project, but I am willing to take them.· Children become aware of rules during this stage of development.be/become aware (that): · The question is, was the Chief of Police aware that so much corruption existed within the police department?well/acutely/keenly aware (=used to emphasize that someone definitely knows something): · There were signs everywhere - the two men must have been well aware that they were hunting out of season.painfully aware (=aware of something that upsets you): · Abbey was always painfully aware that she was not as pretty as her sister.
especially spoken to know that something is true because you can see signs that show this: · She's going to have a baby - couldn't you tell?can tell (that): · I could tell he worked outdoors, because he had a deep tan.can tell by/from: · You can tell by the look on her face that she's hiding something.can tell whether/what/how etc: · You can tell when kids aren't feeling well.· I couldn't tell exactly how old he was.from what I can tell...: · Don't worry. From what I can tell, you'll make a great father.
to understand how serious a situation or problem is: · I wonder if he really appreciates the seriousness of the situation.appreciate how/what/why: · Changes were taking place, though at the time no one fully appreciated how far-reaching these changes were to be.appreciate (that): · I appreciate that some of you have had to wait all night, and I thank you for your patience.
to know that a particular situation exists and to have it in your mind continuously: be conscious of: · I was very conscious of the fact that this was an important meeting and that I had to make a good impression.· As oil prices rose, countries in the West suddenly became conscious of fuel efficiency. be conscious (that): · He was conscious that she was staring at him as he spoke.
spoken use this to say that someone knows something, although they behave as if they do not: know perfectly well (that): · He knows perfectly well, he's not allowed to park outside the main door.· I knew perfectly well that I had anorexia, but I wouldn't admit that it was a problem.know perfectly well what/why/who etc: · You know perfectly well what I mean, so stop pretending you don't.
to know what is likely to happen in a particular situation, because you have learned from your own experiences: know/learn from experience (that): · He knew from experience that most ship's captains were not adequately covered with life insurance. know from past/personal/first-hand etc experience: · Kelly knew from personal experience that education is a ticket out of minimum-wage work.know from bitter experience (=know something because of a bad experience of something similar): · Sue learned from bitter experience not to rely on Martin in times of crisis.
to know a place, a film, a book etc if you know a place, you have been there before and spent time there; if you know a book, song, film etc, you have read it or seen it or heard it before: · "Do you know Boston at all?" "Yes, I went to college there."· I didn't know any of the songs they were singing.· Do you know that Hitchcock movie about a man who is being chased?know something by heart (=know every word of a song, poem etc without having to read it): · The congregation seemed to know all the hymns by heart.know somewhere like the back of your hand informal (=know a place very well): · Tony had spent a lot of time in Tokyo and knew the place like the back of his hand.
to know a thing or place well because you have seen it, read it, used it, or been there: · Are you familiar with this type of software?· I grew up near Lake George, so I'm very familiar with the towns around there.· Are you familiar with the works of George Eliot?
formal to know something: · I was not acquainted with the north-western part of the island.· Through art, children become acquainted with cultures other than their own.be fully acquainted with: · All our employees are fully acquainted with the safety procedures.
to know a lot about something · My brother knows about cars. I'm sure he could fix it for you.· You can't become an architect unless you know all about building regulations.know a lot about something · The old man knew a lot about the history of the village.know all there is to know about something (=to know everything about a particular subject) · I thought I knew all there was to know about men, until I met Jason.
knowing a lot of facts about a particular subject, especially about something that not many people know about: · The sales staff are all knowledgeable, helpful, and cheerful.knowledgeable about/in: · We are looking for people who are knowledgeable about the oil and banking industries.· Earley is a diligent reporter, knowledgeable in the field of espionage.
to know a lot about a particular subject because you have had a lot of experience of it: · The new prime minister is well versed in economic policy.· Victor Amadeus was reputed to be well versed in poisons and their antidotes.
informal to know a particular subject very thoroughly: · She's very experienced -- she knows the advertising business inside out.· You need to know your specialized subject inside and out.
British informal to know all the facts that you need to know about a subject, especially because you have found it out before you start doing something: be clued up on: · Are you clued up on what points to look for when buying a used car?be clued up about: · We'd better get clued up about this new computer system before we start using it.
also specialise British to know a lot about one particular subject or activity because you study it or do it more than any other: · My history professor specialized in Russian history.· The chef specializes in Hunan and Szechuan cuisine, but all the dishes we tried were delicious.
informal to know a lot about a particular subject so that your judgement can be trusted, especially because you have had a lot of experience: · Pilger knows what he is talking about, having spent several years as a reporter in Vietnam.· Rolim seemed to know what he was talking about, but his theories raised some questions for me.
informal to know a lot about something, especially about how to do your job, in a way that other people think is impressive: · To pass that test the kids really have to know their stuff.· The doctor who came in looked very young. I was just hoping she knew her stuff.
someone who knows a lot about something someone who know a lot about a subject: · The team of experts includes psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers.expert in/on: · an expert in French history· A draft of the document was reviewed by experts on hospital infection control.medical/legal/financial etc expert: · Legal experts are saying that the man's conviction was unlawful.
someone who has studied a particular subject for a long time and knows much more about it than other people: · You really need a specialist for this job.specialist in: · Professor Williams teaches English Literature and is a specialist in the novels of George Orwell.computer/marketing/engine etc specialist: · The Health Department is seeking the advice of a team of tropical disease specialists.
someone whose knowledge and opinions on a particular subject are greatly respected: authority on: · Reischauer became an authority on Japanese-American relations.· She was widely regarded as the country's leading authority on plant diseases.
someone who knows a lot about a subject, especially politics or economics, and who is asked to give their opinion about it on television, in newspapers etc: · If the pundits are right, the economic situation may become worse before the end of the year.· Hollywood pundits predicted the movie would grab the top spot in the ratings, but they were wrong.
someone who knows a lot about a particular activity or subject because they are very interested in it: film/jazz/computer etc buff: · "How many films did Hitchcock make?" "Ask Paul, -- he's a great film buff."· The market for magazines for computer buffs is growing all the time.
someone who has great knowledge and experience of something such as art, furniture, food, or wine so that they can recognize what is the best: · The golden chanterelle, as it is commonly known, is a favorite among mushroom connoisseurs.connoisseur of: · Lord Burlington was a great collector and connoisseur of paintings.
informal British someone who knows a lot about a particular subject, especially a scientific or technical subject: · A few science boffins were asked for their opinions, but otherwise the article gave very little information.
knowing a lot about something someone who is knowledgeable knows a lot of different facts, especially about a particular subject or activity: · Visitors should use reputable travel firms with knowledgeable guides, and avoid camping alone.knowledgeable about/in: · Gradually the band became more knowledgeable about the business dealings in the music industry.
knowing a lot about what is happening, especially about what is happening in the world: · "Le Monde' is a newspaper designed for well-informed readers.· According to one well-informed source, the two sides are very near to reaching an agreement.well-informed about: · Abdul Karim was particularly well- informed about American politics.
to know a lot about a particular subject or about various subjects, so that you are usually able to answer anything that people ask you: · The British Ambassador proved to be a mine of information on the subject of the Royal Family.
British /be up on American spoken to know a lot about something, including the most recent information: · How well up are you on men's fashion?· Don't ask me - I'm not really up on current events in that part of the world.
to always know what changes and developments are happening in a particular situation or organization: have your finger on the pulse of: · As a manager of a bookshop, I have to have my finger on the pulse of the publishing industry.
to make sure that you know all the most recent news about what is happening somewhere or about new developments in a particular subject: · When we lived abroad, we always kept abreast of what was happening at home.· It's very important for students to keep up to date with developments in their own field of study.
to know something so well you can repeat it from memory also know something off by heart British to know every word of a poem, story, song etc, that you have learned so that you can say it or sing it without making any mistakes: · Eleanor had heard the story so many times that she knew every word of it by heart.· I studied the poem until I knew it off by heart.
British /have something down pat American to be able to give a speech or an answer immediately and easily because you have learned it thoroughly or because you have said the same thing a lot of times before: · She only had to repeat the lines once or twice, and she'd have them down pat.· Like most politicians he had all his answers off pat, but he didn't have anything particularly new or interesting to say.
able to repeat something from memory in exactly the same way as it was said or written: · Each Monday the teacher made us recite a poem which had to be word perfect .
to know a little about something also know a bit about especially British · This excellent book can be understood by anyone who knows a little about social anthropology.· I know a bit about how psychiatry works, having been in therapy for years.
to have only a small amount of knowledge about a subject, especially of a foreign language: · He only has a smattering of English, so it can be quite difficult trying to communicate with him.· I left school with no more than a smattering of scientific knowledge.
to have enough knowledge of something such as a system or a foreign language to be able to use it, although your knowledge is limited: · You don't need to be an expert, but we do expect you to have a good working knowledge of computers.· For the system to work, mediators must have a working knowledge of the law.
spoken to know just enough about something, for example a foreign language, to be able to make yourself understood or do something successfully: · My Spanish isn't great, but I can get by as a tourist.can get by/be able to get by on/with: · "Can I still pass the course?" "You may be able to get by on what you've already read."
to know something that most people do not know to know secret information about something, for example a government plan or someone's private life, that only a small group of people know: · I heard it from someone who's in the know, so it must be true.· Those who were in the know bought land where the railway was to be built, and made enormous profits.· The people in the know are saying that the team doesn't have enough money to keep Wojek for another season.
informal to know about a secret plan or activity that only a small group of people know about, especially when you are involved in it: · The children are planning a surprise for Grandma. Are you in on this?· It turned out that some of the local cops were in on the deal too.let somebody in on something (=tell them about a secret): · We made the mistake of letting my sister in on the plan, and she, of course, told my parents.
especially written to know about something that is kept a secret from most people, especially because someone trusts you enough to tell you about it: · She became a confidante of Churchill, and thus was privy to some of his thinking.· The Division was not privy to all the information being collected in Saigon.
: knowing look/smile/wink etc a look, smile etc that shows that you know something that other people do not know or that you share a secret with someone: · I saw him give her a knowing smile as she left the room.· Her questions and knowing looks unnerved him, almost as if she had figured him out.
when most people know something especially spoken say this when you think most people know something and you would be surprised if someone did not know it: · Haven't you heard Anja's pregnant? I thought everyone knew.everyone knows (that): · Everyone knows that for a democracy to truly work, everyone has to get involved in some way.everyone knows how/what/why etc: · Surely everyone knows how to change a light bulb!
use this about facts and ideas that most people know about, or that all the people in a particular group know about: · Her views on the single European currency were well known.it is well known that: · It is well known that people who smoke are more likely to get lung diseases.· It was well known that Mr. Walters was interested in our mother.
if information about someone is common knowledge , a lot of people know about it, even when that person would prefer to keep it a secret: · It's common knowledge here in Miami that this whole operation was paid for with cocaine money.be common knowledge that: · It's already common knowledge that their marriage is breaking up.
if an unpleasant fact is no secret , everyone knows about it: · Everyone knows they hate each other, it's no secret.be no secret that: · It was no secret that Morrison was with the CIA, but nobody knew exactly what he did.
if something is an open secret , it is supposed to be secret but most people know about it: · Her relationship with a French millionaire is pretty much an open secret around here.be an open secret that: · It's an open secret that organized crime has been financing films here for years.
when a government allows people to know what is in official government records, documents etc: · Freedom of information should be a basic right in a democracy.
facts and information that you know facts and information that you know: · He doesn't have the skills or knowledge needed to do the job.knowledge of: · My knowledge of Japanese is limited to a few phrases.scientific/medical/technical etc knowledge: · Our assumptions are based on current scientific knowledge.
special knowledge about how to do something, gained through study or practical experience: · The technical expertise was provided by a Japanese company.· His expertise will be invaluable to understanding technological challenges the BBC is facing. expertise in: · The organisation has employees with expertise in both medical and counselling services.
practical knowledge about how to do something: · There was a lack of managerial and technical know-how in the steel industry.· The US supplied the machinery, the know-how, and most of the capital.
to feel sure something is true even though you have no proof · I felt a definite sense of danger and impending disaster.feel (that) · I always felt I had the ability to become a reasonable actor.· It is a common experience to feel that an author writes well without being able to say exactly why.
to feel that something is present or is happening where you are although you cannot see or hear anything to prove it: · We could sense an unwelcoming atmosphere.· I wasn't that thrilled with her performance, and I'm sure she sensed it.sense (that): · After a while, I sensed that he was no longer listening.
to feel very strongly that something is true: · Everyone knew immediately how serious the situation was.know (that): · I knew that this was going to happen.· I know damn well she won't keep her promise.just know: · I knew it was a huge gamble, buying the stuff without seeing it, but I just knew it would be good quality.
to feel almost sure that something is true, although you have no proof: have a feeling/get the feeling (that): · As we walked along together, I had a feeling that we were both thinking the same thing.· Maybe we should leave him alone. I have a feeling he doesn't want us here.
to know how someone is feeling or how a situation is changing although there are no clear signs to prove it, especially in a way that worries you: be aware/conscious of: · Charles was uncomfortably aware of the woman's silent contempt for him.be aware/conscious that: · Slowly, she became conscious that there was some connection between the man and the girl.
to not know a fact or piece of information · "What time's the next train to Paris?" "I'm sorry, I don't know."· I wish I could tell you the name of the restaurant but I honestly don't know it.not know anything about · These days, record companies are usually owned by people who don't know anything about music.not know how/what/why etc · I don't know why it is so difficult to explain the concept to people.· No one knows if there really is a Loch Ness monster, or if it's just a myth.not know (that) · My mother never knew that they'd called the police out that night.
especially spoken say this when you know nothing at all about the answer to a question, so that you cannot even guess what it might be: · "How much is this painting worth?" "I'm sorry, I've no idea."· When I asked where Louise had gone, he said he didn't have a clue.have no idea/not have a clue what/how/who etc: · That guy obviously doesn't have a clue how to put a Web page together.· I fell asleep half way through the film, and I have absolutely no idea how it ended.
also not have the least idea British spoken say this when you want to say very strongly that you know nothing at all: · "Do you know where he was going after he left here?" "I don't have the slightest idea."not have the faintest/slightest/foggiest idea what/how/where etc: · I don't have the faintest idea what you're talking about -- can you explain please?· Nobody at that time had the slightest idea about how caffeine affected the body.not have the faintest/slightest/foggiest idea about: · They didn't have the least idea about how to put up a tent.
spoken say this when you do not know and cannot understand why something happens: · "What I can't understand is why they make you wait three months just to give you a stamp on your passport." "Beats me too."(it) beats me how/why etc: · It beats me how these kids can afford to spend so much money on clothes and CDs.
spoken informal say this when it is impossible for you to know the answer to a question, especially when you are annoyed or surprised that someone has asked you: · "Why is Sharon in such a bad mood?" "How should I know - she never tells me anything."· "We figured we could pay about $200 a week, right?" "Don't ask me! I wasn't in on the conversation."
spoken say this when you think it is impossible for anyone to know the answer to a question: · The world might end tomorrow. Who knows?
spoken say this when you do not know the answer to a difficult question or a joke, and you want someone to tell you: · "Guess who's coming to dinner tonight?" "I give up. Tell me."· "Why did the chicken cross the road?" "I give up, why did the chicken cross the road?"
to not know a place, film or book etc to know little or nothing about a subject, book, play etc because you have not studied it, read it, or seen it: · I'm afraid I'm not familiar with Professor Vaughan's work.· For those of you who may not be familiar with the play I'll give a brief summary of the plot.· It is difficult for anyone unfamiliar with astronomy to grasp the concept of the Black Hole.
if someone or something is unfamiliar to you, you do not know them because you have never seen, heard, or experienced them before: · The voice on the phone sounded unfamiliar.· It took Steven some time to get used to his unfamiliar surroundings.unfamiliar to: · The song is in Russian, a language unfamiliar to many singers.
to not realize what is happening · "It's my birthday today." "Oh, I didn't realize. I should have bought you a card."not know/not realize/have no idea (that) · I wish I'd brought my coat. I didn't know it would be so cold.· We didn't realize that he had quit, until he didn't show up at work that day.not know/not realize/have no idea what/how/where etc · My wife and I had no idea how much we would depend upon Social Security in the future.
formal to not know about a situation or about something that is happening, especially when you should know about it: be unaware/not be aware of: · The child was clearly unaware of the danger.· If any bad feelings existed between the two of them, I was not aware of it.be unaware/not be aware that: · His parents weren't even aware that he smoked.
formal to know nothing about a subject or situation because you have not experienced it, read about it, or heard about it: · The general public has little or no knowledge of what is happening inside prisons.· The State Department said it had no knowledge of any threats to U.S. security.
also unbeknownst to somebody use this about something that was happening without you knowing about it at the time: · Unbeknown to me, Denise had her own plan.· Unbeknownst to the public, he was involved in covering up the scandal that was to rock the nation.
use this when you did not know or imagine that something was true or would happen: little did I/she/he etc know that: · Little did she know that this picture would one day be worth more than a million dollars.· Little did I know then that I would be working in Los Angeles 35 years later.
spoken say this when you know almost nothing about a situation and to suggest something that might have happened or be true, especially something unlikely: · They may have gone to South America, for all we know.· You shouldn't have accepted a ride from him. For all you knew he might have been a mass murderer.
if you are unconscious of the effect of something that you have said or done, you do not realize how it affects other people: · She appeared to be unconscious of the amusement she had caused by her remarks.· Like many tourists they were unconscious of the fact that they had deeply offended their hosts.
someone who is oblivious to what is happening around them does not notice it and continues to do other things without being affected by it: oblivious of: · They soon fell asleep, oblivious of the danger.oblivious to: · The walkers in front crossed the ledge easily, seemingly oblivious to the fact that there was a 3000 foot drop on either side.· In the sitcom she plays a New York executive who's totally oblivious to the feelings of others.
to not know anything about a subject · Don't ask me. I know nothing at all about fixing cars.· No one else at school knew anything about jazz.know nothing of formal · When he arrived in Venice he knew almost nothing of its history or culture.
informal to know nothing at all about how to do something: · I'm amazed how he puts all the bits of the computer back together. I wouldn't have a clue.have no idea/not have a clue about: · After nine years of marriage, he still didn't have a clue about what she really wanted.have no idea/not have a clue how/what/where etc: · It became clear that the sales people didn't have any idea how to sell the new products.
British a subject that is a closed book to someone is one that they know nothing about, and that they believe they will never understand: · For many people, science is something of a closed book.
to not know about something that other people know if you are in the dark about something, especially something important, you have not been told about it because other people want to keep it secret: · We have no idea why he's been arrested. We're still completely in the dark.be in the dark about: · Most board members were kept in the dark about this important financial information.· We're being kept in the dark about the dangers of food additives by the big food manufacturers.
informal if you are not in on a secret plan, you have not been told about it and are not involved in it: · They weren't in on the robbery -- only me and my brother knew about it.
to not know the most recent information about something someone who is out of touch with something used to know about it but does not now know the most recent information about it, because they have not read about it or been involved in it for a long time: · I don't know what kind of music kids listen to these days -- I'm really out of touch.be out of touch with: · The press accused MacGregor of being out of touch with the campaign he was supposed to be running.
if you lose touch with a situation or a subject, you no longer know the latest information about it and are unable to understand what is happening in it: · I must do some teaching again -- I'm worried about losing touch.lose touch with: · The French President has lost touch with the reality of the political situation in France.· When you're living abroad, it's easy to lose touch with what's going on back home.
if you lose track of something or someone, you no longer know where they are or what has happened to them: · I had the file on my desk a minute ago, but I seem to have lost track of it.· After the war they lost track of each other.· They fed us every twelve hours, but when you can't see the sun, you lose track of time.
informal if you are not up on the latest fashions, music, or news, you do not know about them: · I spend most of my time in the woods of Wyoming these days, so I'm not really up on all the latest fashions and movies.· My dad's not really up on what kids think these days.
ways of saying that no one knows something · Maybe the world will end tomorrow. Who can say?· He might come back and say he still loves me, who knows? Who cares?who knows/who can say what/where/why etc · Who knows whether Mimi ever made it to Paris.
spoken say this when you mean that it is impossible to know something: · "Where'd she go?" "God knows."God knows/heaven knows what/who/why etc: · I've just missed my train, so God knows what time I'll get home now.· Heaven knows why she feels she can't trust her own parents.
spoken say this when neither you, nor anyone else knows the answer to a question or the truth about something, and any answer could be correct: · How he'd lived through it all is anybody's guess.it's anybody's guess who/what/why etc: · It's anybody's guess who will come out on top when the winners are announced at the Grammy Awards this year.
spoken say this when it is impossible to know what will happen, especially when you are worried that something bad might happen: there's no telling/knowing who/what/why etc: · "He's a desperate man. There's no telling what he'll do next," said Holmes.· There was no knowing when the flood waters might recede with so much rain in the forecast.
spoken say this when someone asks you a question and you do not know the answer, so that they are just as likely to guess the right answer as you are: · "Who do you think will win the World Cup?" "Your guess is as good as mine."
not knowing about something someone who is ignorant does not know facts or information that they should know: · I didn't like to ask him to explain more clearly because I didn't want to appear ignorant.ignorant of: · There are still doctors who are ignorant of patients' rights, or who try to deny them.ignorant about: · I'm very ignorant about politics.
when someone does not know facts or information that they should know: · I haven't read your latest book, so I hope you'll forgive my ignorance.ignorance of: · He showed complete ignorance of the most basic historical facts.
people or opinions that are uninformed show a lack of knowledge and information about the subject that they are discussing: · Careless or uninformed decisions during these huge storms can lead to loss of life and property.uninformed about: · The Vice-President gave the impression of being remarkably uninformed about South American affairs.
not knowing much about something or making mistakes about it because you have been given incorrect or not enough information: · He's either a liar or he's incredibly ill-informed.· Writers such as Oscar Wilde were the target of ill-informed and often hostile criticism simply because they were gay.ill-informed about: · For someone who wants to be a journalist, she's remarkably ill-informed about current affairs.
someone who has no special knowledge about a subject such as science or medicine, as opposed to people who have special knowledge or training: · Professor Hawking's book is intended for the lay person who has an interest in the field of nuclear physics and astronomy.in layman's terms (=using words a layman can understand): · Many superb doctors are incapable of communicating in layman's terms.
something that people know nothing or very little about · After they left Kathmandu they would be travelling through unknown territory.· There are still a great many unknown insect species in the world.· Yesterday the village was quite unknown, but today it's on the front page of all the newspapers.
a place or an experience that people have not been in before and that they are therefore often nervous about: · In 1492 Columbus and his group of tiny ships set off into the unknown.· Starting a new relationship with someone is always a journey into the unknown.fear of the unknown: · The fear of the unknown prevents many people from making significant changes in their lives.
relating to places that have not been put on a map yet, or to situations that have not yet been experienced: · Space is filled with unknown stars and uncharted galaxies.uncharted territory: · When Indian politicians established mass democracy in 1947, they knew they were entering uncharted territory.
if something is unidentified , people do not know what it is, what its name is, or who it belongs to - used especially in newspapers or in official reports: · A large unidentified object was spotted floating in the sea near our ship.· Two unidentified gunmen opened fire on the Consulate van.· The body remained unidentified until the police checked dental records.
a little known place or thing is one that not many people know about: · He was born on a little known island off the south coast of Spain.· The kakapo is a little known species of parrot that lives in New Zealand.
a person or place that not many people know or know about · The picture was painted in the 15th Century by an unknown Italian artist.· Until their first single, the Beatles were virtually unknown outside Hamburg and Liverpool.unknown to · The Internet has opened up a marketplace where sellers and buyers are virtually unknown to each other.
a little known artist, film etc is one that very few people know about: · A little-known separatist group claimed responsibility for the explosion.· Bernardo Vittone is little known outside his native Italy.
not at all well-known and usually not very important: · Picasso's first exhibition received only a short mention in an obscure Parisian newspaper.· The Silver Apples are one of those obscure bands that you might hear about, but never actually hear.
written a mysterious person that people know very little about, especially someone who seems dangerous: · Vogel, a high-ranking official in East Berlin, was one of the Cold War's most shadowy figures.
someone that very little is known about, especially in relation to their abilities, so that you do not know if they will be successful: · The team's new pitcher has never played pro baseball before and is something of an unknown quantity.
to know someone if you know someone, you have met them before, can remember their face or name, and know something about them, such as where they live, what their job is etc: · Do you two know each other?· Everyone who knew her described her as a kind, generous person.· Do you know anyone who can repair a boiler?· Although we worked for him for years, Cathy was the only one who knew him well.
to be able to recognize someone but not know their name or anything else about them: · Bentson knew all the women by sight, but he'd never exchanged more than a few words with any of them.· Two or three of the salespeople knew me by sight.
formal to know someone because you have met once or twice before but to not know much about them: · "Have you met Lee Davidson?" "No, I don't think we're acquainted."· He lived in Great Russell Street and became acquainted with Keynes and other famous British thinkers of the time.
to start to know someone to start to become friends with someone by spending a lot of time with them and talking to them: · The volunteers had a lot of trouble getting to know the local people.· Being stuck on a small boat, you get to know someone pretty well.· Steve's alright once you get to know him.
to start to know someone who you have only just met: · I'll leave you two alone so you can get acquainted.get acquainted with: · I had no problems getting acquainted with the girls, but the guys were a little harder.get better acquainted: · Maybe we should invite Sam round for dinner so we can get better acquainted.
to see and talk to someone for the first time: · Where did you meet Michael?· Carol and I first met at university.· Branford took us to meet a few of his colleagues.
someone you know, but not very well · She's just an acquaintance -- I see her sometimes at night school.business/childhood/musical etc acquaintance (=one you know from business, childhood etc) · I first heard of the idea from a business acquaintance in Montpelier.mutual acquaintance (=one that you and someone else both know) · Jane and I met through a mutual acquaintance at a party.
if you have met someone, you have seen and talked to them, although you do not know them very well: · "Do you know Chris?" "Yes, we've met."· We met once before at Jo's house.
someone you do not know · The room was full of strangers.be a stranger to somebody · After assuming office, he was reluctant to use the existing speech writers because they were strangers to him.perfect/complete stranger (=use this to emphasize that you do not know someone at all) · The boy was a complete stranger to me.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES He’s perhaps best known for his role in ‘Midnight Cowboy’. Potter is better known for his TV work. Rain, snow, and hail are collectively known as precipitation. I’m sorry about that – I don’t know what came over me (=I do not know why I behaved in that way). It’s comforting to know I can call my parents any time. Mandy was curious to know what happened. I demand to know what’s going on. Bistro Roti is a deservedly popular restaurant. Kiribati, formerly known as the Gilbert Islands The plants are generally regarded as weeds. a generally accepted view God knows what she’s doing in there. It was hard to see what else we could have done. It’s hard to believe that anyone would say something like that. He was gone before they knew what had hit them (=realized what had happened). It may interest you to know that a number of scholarships are available. I’d be very interested to hear your opinion. It will be interesting to see what happens when he gets a bit older. an internationally famous sculptor She was intrigued to know what he planned to do next. those who have the know-how to exploit the technology to the fullest the know-how needed by today’s practising lawyer No other company had the technical know-how to deal with the disaster. This is one of the worst diseases known to man. ‘I didn’t really like him.’ 'I know what you mean, I didn’t get on with him either (=used to say you understand and have had the same experience). We know nothing about her family. I don’t know her personally, but I like her work. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is popularly known as the Mormon Church. It is difficult to know precisely how much impact the changes will have. He works repairing streets, and knows the ropes when it comes to safety. It had surprised me to find how fussy he was about some things. the phenomena variously known as ‘mass culture’, ‘popular culture’, or the ‘public arts’
· I’d really like to be a famous actor.
· Do you know Helen’s address?· No one seems to have his address.
· Put up your hand if you know the answer.
· The famous author Henry James lived here.
He’s perhaps best known for his role in ‘Midnight Cowboy’. Potter is better known for his TV work. Rain, snow, and hail are collectively known as precipitation. I’m sorry about that – I don’t know what came over me (=I do not know why I behaved in that way). It’s comforting to know I can call my parents any time.· At present is there is no known cure for this virus.
Mandy was curious to know what happened.· You know damn well what I’m talking about.
I demand to know what’s going on. Bistro Roti is a deservedly popular restaurant. (=know how two things are different)· If you don’t know the difference between two words, your dictionary can help.
· Seven copies of the original book are still known to exist.
· Janet knew from experience that love doesn't always last.
· We do not yet know the extent of the damage.
· It is a well-known fact that new cars lose a lot of their value in the first year.
· It is a little-known fact that the actor was born in London.
(=used to say that something is definitely true)· I know for a fact that she is older than me.
Kiribati, formerly known as the Gilbert Islands The plants are generally regarded as weeds. a generally accepted view God knows what she’s doing in there. It was hard to see what else we could have done. It’s hard to believe that anyone would say something like that. He was gone before they knew what had hit them (=realized what had happened).· He wanted to know the identity of his real father.
It may interest you to know that a number of scholarships are available. I’d be very interested to hear your opinion. It will be interesting to see what happens when he gets a bit older. an internationally famous sculptor She was intrigued to know what he planned to do next. those who have the know-how to exploit the technology to the fullest the know-how needed by today’s practising lawyer No other company had the technical know-how to deal with the disaster.· The Eiffel Tower is probably the most famous landmark in Paris.
· He had lived in Japan, but did not know the language.
(=know what your qualities or abilities will allow you to do)· Know your limitations, and don't exercise too hard or you'll get injured.
(=not known about by many people) a little known corner of the world
a little known corner of the world This is one of the worst diseases known to man. spoken (=used to check that someone understands you) I want to buy her something really special, if you know what I mean. We’re still married but living apart in the same house, if you see what I mean.
I want to buy her something really special, if you know what I mean. We’re still married but living apart in the same house, if you see what I mean. ‘I didn’t really like him.’ 'I know what you mean, I didn’t get on with him either (=used to say you understand and have had the same experience).· Do you know the meaning of the word ‘paraphrase’?
· His first name is Tom, but I don’t know his last name.
(=know their name)· The headteacher knew all the children by name.
(=used to say that something is strange because it has never happened before) Max had never been known to leave home without telling anyone.
Max had never been known to leave home without telling anyone. We know nothing about her family. (=used when you think someone should behave more sensibly)· He’s old enough to know better, but he went and did it anyway!
I don’t know her personally, but I like her work.· We all hear the phrase "greenhouse gasses", but do you know what it really means?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is popularly known as the Mormon Church. It is difficult to know precisely how much impact the changes will have. (=used when you do not understand someone’s behaviour)· For reasons best known to herself, she decided to sell the house.
He works repairing streets, and knows the ropes when it comes to safety. (=about someone else)· You can tell Tom that I know his secret.
· It's important to know your strengths as well as your weaknesses.
It had surprised me to find how fussy he was about some things.· At last I knew the truth about my father’s death.
the phenomena variously known as ‘mass culture’, ‘popular culture’, or the ‘public arts’· Do you know the way to Birkleigh?
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRYPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► not know someone from Adam► not know your arse from your elbow► know something backwards► know something backwards and forwards► not know/care beans (about somebody/something)► know which side your bread is buttered on► know/find out/learn etc something to your cost► darned if I know► better the devil you know (than the devil you don’t)► as/so far as I know/I can remember/I can tell/I can see etc► God (only) knows► God (only) knows► the left hand does not know what the right hand is doing► the left hand doesn’t know what the right hand is doing► you never know► I can’t rightly say/don’t rightly know► not know your own strength► you don’t know when you’re well-off► don’t know/can’t tell etc which is which
in the know informal having more information about something than most people: - People in the know say Sikma will get the position.
- Avoiding long-drawn-out negotiations and yet ensuring that everyone is in the know is part of the task of governors.
- But for those few in the know, it is easy to pull together these facts into an interesting whole.
- It should put you in the know, not keep you in the dark.
- Naturally, those poor, deluded idiots thought that somehow I was in the know as to what was happening.
- Perhaps one day some one in the know will explain in great detail the mysteries of Blea Moor Tunnel.
- Richie was in the know but the plan was kept a secret from Midge and Stevie.
- There'd be a seedy little office somewhere with a phone number given only to those in the know.
- We need not concern ourselves with its detailed definition, though it is precise enough for those in the know.
- Anyone can claim to have all the answers.
- But I don't have all the answers.
- He was a modest and unassuming man who never gave the impression that he knew all the answers.
- In the current situation many issues as yet remain unresolved and we do not have all the answers.
- We are supposed to have all the answers.
- Will that have all the answers?
- I know nothing's ever going to happen - I can feel it in my bones.
- And he was innocent of murder; she felt it in her bones.
- He could feel it in his bones, and he knew he could trust the feeling.
- He felt sure in his bones that their man would try something tonight.
- I can feel it in my bones.
- She could feel it in her bones.
- Something was very wrong, she could feel it in her bones, but what was it?
- The fog horn started booming, a deep, thrilling vibration that Madame Astarti could feel resonate in her bones.
- Paul's love for her knew no bounds.
- And as you know, greed knows no bounds.
- As the men filed into Faneuil Hall, in solid columns, the enthusiasm knew no bounds...
- Faith in benign science knew no bounds.
- His business enterprise knew no bounds.
- It was once again proved that the credulity of trainees knew no bounds.
- Only in later centuries, when Constant Drachenfels' daring knew no bounds, did the famed, fabled horrors begin.
- Sarah's pride in her daughter knew no bounds.
- Andre's so in love he doesn't know whether he's coming or going.
- Bradley doesn't know diddly about running his own business.
- I have a sudden urge to touch her, to hold her, to tell her I know how she feels.
- I knew how he felt about me -- a short blind boy who hated leather basketballs.
- I know how he feels about me!
- I know how you feel about it ... You would rather wait - wait till we're married.
- I know how you feel, Doyle thought.
- I know how you feel, they're all or nothing.
- You ran a decent campaign, John, and I know how it feels to lose.
- "She makes me so mad I could scream!" "I know the feeling."
- And yet these hills are the first I knew and loved.
- It was the first I knew about it.
- All I had to do was got to know his taste in food.
- Come to think of it, he'd seemed rather a decent chap, some one it might be worth getting to know.
- He got to know Bill Clinton quite well when they were together at Oxford as Rhodes scholars.
- I would like to get to know customers well 8.
- It was one of Brian's three daughters, Karen, who got to know Kirsty.
- Mrs Nowak and Taczek must have got to know most of the truth and stuck by the cover story.
- She had seen a leaflet about the YCs and thought that this would provide a good way of getting to know people.
- So I got, I sort of got to know her.
- If you know what's good for you, you'll do what I tell you.
- You'll just keep your mouth shut about this if you know what's good for you!
- The last bridge cost $30 million, and goodness knows how much a new one will cost.
- At the mercy of wild animals and insects and snakes and goodness knows what horrors!
- But goodness knows, Nona had had her say there.
- For aficionados those shortcuts are still there - it's still Control+KQX to quit - goodness knows why.
- I suppose that ferrets are no more unusual as pets than rats, snakes and goodness only knows what else.
- It seems you've survived, goodness knows how, for really it would not matter if you did not.
- They took furnishings, china, sofas, televisions and goodness only knows what else.
- Though goodness knows why they think they have to do it so early in the morning.
- I'll have you know I speak six languages.
- I've never taken the easy way out, I 'll have you know.
- I 'll have you know this is the very latest design.
- What a great meal! You certainly know the way to a man's heart!
- And heavens knows, once launched it's all too hard to turn back and look again for the missed trace.
- He starts a conversation and ends up heaven knows where.
- If it isn't, heaven knows who will ride to the rescue of the firm.
- Kenyon must see it through or heaven knows what will become of the station.
- People live together - Peter and Miranda are Bohemian enough, heaven knows.
- People wave from the bank and shout our names; heaven knows who they are!
- What effect it will have on the result, heaven only knows.
- As he was a thoroughly professional journalist, he already knew the media inside out.
- He stutters, but he caddied for me for five years and he knows the game inside out.
- I know this one Inside out!
- Of course, if everyone knew their partners inside out, there's a good chance no-one would ever plight their troth.
- Start off by adding every email address you know, and click on all the options until you know it inside out.
- They know their stuff inside out, but most importantly they also look like they are having a whale of a time.
- When the whole cake fell off the table, I didn't know whether to laugh or cry.
- I know my limits, and I'm not a great runner.
- Ford says she may be good at her job, but she knows her limits.
- The Profitboss does so much and no more, knowing his limits.
- These lunchtime drinkers know their limits, or at least most of them do.
- But little did he know at the time, how soon he'd need it.
- Even Protestants - and the good Lord knows how mistaken they are - have something to hold on to.
- I do mean it! Lord knows I read plenty of nonfiction books.
- The Lord knows I did my best.
- The Lord knows why she hung them where she would see them every time she looked up.
- The Lord only knows what will happen in the regular season and playoffs next year.
- We need heroes. Lord knows, kids need them today.
- When I was a young houseman I - well, enjoyed a hectic love-life. Lord knows how I managed it.
- You realize there was a major pile-up? Lord knows how many vehicles - all of them following us, I suspect.
- As we will soon see, the inability to make oneself understood properly was at the root of the crisis in Vicos.
- But only one side was making itself heard.
- Hardly a practicable solution when she didn't even know if she could make herself understood.
- He makes himself known with a tiny, metallic clink-clink-clink from within the bushes.
- I yelled to make myself heard above the deafening roar of the wind and the sea.
- To leave was to admit defeat in this peculiar ritual of making myself known.
- Yet lay people had almost no way of making themselves heard in Rome.
- If you are overweight, then you know what it means to be in emotional pain.
- Mike Hardware was the kind of private eye who didn't know the meaning of fear.
- A dictionary is useless unless one already knows the meanings of many words.
- For instance, we assume he would satisfy our behavioural criteria for being some one who knows the meaning of the word bank.
- He had a lot of things representing other things that no one but he knew the meaning of.
- Men like Luke Hunter didn't know the meaning of permanence - or fidelity.
- Regarding exercises: before attempting to answer a question do make sure you know the meaning of all the words in it!
- So I know the meaning of credit.
- Some were struggling behind-but they did not really know the meaning of struggling.
- Willi didn't know the meaning of restraint, not in any aspect of his life.
- All those years I might have known her!
- Although I might have known you'd arrive just as drinks were being ordered!
- Dear little Papa, as I might have known!
- If you'd had a big fat bottom I might have guessed.
- It was nothing I might have guessed.
- Of course, I might have known that you'd have some clever way of dealing with everything, though.
- Ooh! I might have known it!
- Some years before, I might have guessed Bond's enigmatic presence in the scene.
- April 14, if you must know.
- But I was extremely jealous of him, if you must know.
- But if you must know, Mrs. Jewkes was present.
- I had a bad dose of influenza, if you must know.
- It's my sister Rose's birthday on Sunday, if you must know.
- More than enough, if you must know.
- Access to the manufacturing process is on a strictly need-to-know basis.
- I never knew you played the guitar!
- And I never knew he took my advice about Eliot so seriously.
- As I once told you, I never knew where we were heading when I first drove out the Anacreonians.
- But I never knew from one week to the next if there would be any money.
- I sort of dabble my foot in it like it's a puddle. I never knew Marie was married.
- I was brought up in a pit village near Bishop Auckland and I never knew my father.
- Those men have to stand that over and over again. I never knew it was like that.
- You and your father. I never knew two people more alike.
- You said they stole your milk. I never knew what it was that messed him up.
- And the next thing I knew, I was here.
- But the next thing she knew she was crying.
- He slipped something in my wine and the next thing I knew was that we were on the Continent.
- I fell asleep, and the next thing I knew, some one was waking me.
- I had hardly dated, and the next thing I knew I was getting married.
- I must have fallen asleep, for the next thing I knew I was woken by the ringing of the telephone.
- I started to run and the next thing I knew I was lying on the kitchen table.
- Well, it's nice to know the ad is working.
- I know four-wheel drive cars rarely go into the woods, but it's nice to know they can.
- Global warming is otherwise known as the greenhouse effect.
- Area 17, for example, is otherwise known as the primary visual area.
- During that pilgrimage, they lived in tents and booths, otherwise known as sukkot.
- It is otherwise known as delegated legislation.
- It was a control on monetary hanky-panky, otherwise known as inflation.
- The best explanation for this is the so-called rebound effect, otherwise known as acute tolerance.
- And I didn't break any hearts - they all knew the score.
- Just so you know the score, Walt.
- Like music, the better one knows the score, the greater the delight and reward one gains from reading it.
- No great discoveries, but at least he knew the score.
- Some bisexual relationships work perfectly well as long as everyone knows the score.
- Valdez knew the score -- the deal was indefensible.
- You know the score, give the urban kids a slice of country life.
- What does Ron see in her?
- But Catholic bishops have let both parties know where they stand.
- Do you know where you stand?
- I am only ensuring we both know where we stand.
- Imagine a man in public office that everybody knew where he stood.
- My father died, I didn't know where I stood on the team, we lost a lot of games.
- She knew where he stood over Grunte.
- Well, now she knew where she stood.
- You knew where you stood with the Cold War.
- Look, I know what I'm talking about because I was there when it happened.
- Pilger knows what he is talking about, having spent several years as a reporter in Vietnam.
- Rolim seemed to know what he was talking about, but his theories raised some questions for me.
- Wayne, you don't know what the hell you're talking about.
- And those who hint that this approach increases the guilt of the patient simply do not know what they are talking about.
- But the debate will be between two insiders who know what they are talking about.
- But we ensure we first know what we are talking about.
- Engineers should only offer an opinion if they know what they are talking about.
- They are not the only people who know what they are talking about when it comes to children and education.
- They have demonstrated publicly, through close scrutiny by their peers, that they know what they are talking about.
- After all, I am not so different from anyone else, if the truth be known.
- He could never, if the truth were told, stand against his wife.
- He looked lonely, if the truth were told.
- I bet they did it worse than us if the truth was known.
- I puzzle a lot, if the truth be known.
- I suppose if the truth was known, I was narked at being pushed around.
- Nearly thirteen and a half if the truth be known.
- You'd rather have a day out at York racecourse than at Headingley if truth were known, wouldn't you?
- I asked them, and this is what they told me. I just wanted to know did you know any more.
- In the ambulance, I just wanted to know the damage.
- The truth of it was, as miserable as things were, I just wanted to say I had been there.
- I know perfectly well that metastases are not just a characteristic of malignant cells, spreading from organ to organ.
- In everyday life we talk about things being good and bad, and we know perfectly well what we mean.
- Oh, I glory in inconsistencies, as you know full well.
- Ought we to think less of Johnson for agreeing because he knew full well that he could influence Boswell?
- She knew perfectly well he didn't trust her.
- The public know full well that the Labour party taxes and spends, taxes and spends.
- You know perfectly well I can't.
- You know perfectly well that women get depressed at - at certain times.
- And I wish I knew why.
- But being so weak seems wrong now too. I wish I knew judo.
- Don't ask me what I do want. I wish I knew.
- He was a sad person underneath. I wish I knew what he was so sad about.
- I do know that it was because of an argument that he left. I wish I knew more.
- I won't listen to you any more. I wish I knew what time it was.
- Men clustered and chattered lively in groups. I wished I knew how to smoke.
- Very grand. I wish I knew where it is now.
People in the know say that interest rates will have to rise again soon.- Prescott, John
- prescribe
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- presence
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- present-day
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- present participle
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- preservation