Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Know” — 4 Other Ways to Say It
To understand or have information about something; to be familiar with someone or a place.
Meaning of Know
To have information, awareness, or understanding of something in your mind; to be familiar with a person or place.
How to Pronounce Know
IPA: /noʊ/ Stress: O
One syllable with long /oʊ/ vowel like 'o' in 'go' or 'boat'. The 'kn' sound starts with just /n/, not /kn/.
4 Synonyms for Know — Words Similar to Know
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
understand
/ˌʌndərˈstænd/To know or grasp what something means; to comprehend or realize something.
Example: I do not understand this math problem.
recognize
/ˈrɛkəɡnaɪz/To see someone or something and know who or what they are because you have seen them before.
Example: I recognized my friend at the airport from a distance.
Smart Synonyms for Know — When to Use Each
understand
for comprehending meaning or significance
recognize
for identifying someone or something familiar
be aware of
for having knowledge of a situation or fact
Antonyms of Know — Opposite Words
How to Use Know and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- I know your sister from school. A1
- Do you know where the library is? A1
- She knew the answer to the difficult question immediately. A2
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Know
What is another word for "know"?
Common synonyms for "know" include: understand, recognize, be aware of, familiar with.
What can I say instead of "know"?
Try one of these alternatives: understand, recognize, be aware of, familiar with. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "know" formal or informal?
"know" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "know" instead of "understand"?
Use "know" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "understand" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "know"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "know" include: forget, ignore, misunderstand.