Definition of Knowing
Quick Meaning of Knowing
Showing that you understand something; suggesting you know a secret or have special knowledge
Detailed Definition of Knowing
Showing awareness or understanding of something; suggestive or implying secret knowledge or intelligence; deliberate or intentional
How to Pronounce Knowing
Stress pattern: oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Pronounced /ˈnəʊɪŋ/ with stress on first syllable
Watch out: Check IPA: /ˈnəʊɪŋ/
Origin and Etymology of Knowing
From 'know' + present participle '-ing'. Used since early English for current awareness or understanding.
How to Use Knowing in a Sentence
Each example shows “knowing” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“She gave him a knowing smile that suggested she understood his secret.”
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“The knowing audience laughed at the inside joke.”
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“He made a knowing comment about her recent promotion.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Knowing
Common Synonyms for Knowing
Smart Synonyms for Knowing — When to Use Each
- aware
- Having knowledge or consciousness of something
- conscious
- Deliberately aware or intentional
Common Collocations with Knowing
These phrases pair with “knowing” in everyday English:
- knowing smile
- knowing look
- knowing audience
- knowing comment
- knowingly doing
Common Mistakes When Using Knowing
Even fluent speakers slip up with “knowing”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She was giving a knowing at him
- ✓ Correct: She gave him a knowing smile
- Why: Use 'knowing' as adjective modifying noun; add appropriate noun
- ✗ Wrong: The knowing people understand the situation
- ✓ Correct: The knowing audience understood the situation
- Why: Knowing is more commonly used with 'audience' or expressions
- ✗ Wrong: He knowingly did the mistake
- ✓ Correct: He knowingly made the mistake
- Why: Use 'make' not 'do' with 'mistake'
Other Forms of Knowing
Frequently Asked Questions About Knowing
What is the meaning of "Knowing"?
Showing that you understand something; suggesting you know a secret or have special knowledge
How do you pronounce "Knowing"?
The IPA is /ˈnəʊɪŋ/. Pronounced /ˈnəʊɪŋ/ with stress on first syllable
What part of speech is "Knowing"?
"Knowing" is an adjective at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Knowing"?
Common synonyms include aware, conscious, understanding.
How do you use "Knowing" in a sentence?
For example: "She gave him a knowing smile that suggested she understood his secret."