I know I know

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I know I know" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express acknowledgment or agreement, often in a slightly exasperated or playful manner, when someone reiterates something you already understand. Example: "I know I know, you’ve told me that a hundred times already!"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I know, I know, I know.

The New Yorker

"I know, I know.

The New York Times - Magazine

"No, I know, I know, I know.

The New York Times

"Oh, I know, I know.

The New Yorker

"What?" "I know, I know".

The New Yorker

(Laughs) I know, I know.

The New York Times

I know, I know, it's a dream.

The New York Times

I know, I know — I'm a minimalist.

The New York Times

"I know, I know, it's the Kardashians.

The New York Times

I know, I know… It's an excuse.

The New York Times

I know, I know – it's never enough.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I know I know" to acknowledge a point that has already been made, especially when you want to show you understand and are slightly impatient or amused by the repetition. For example, if someone is giving you instructions you already know, you might say, "I know I know, just let me finish."

Common error

Avoid using "I know I know" in formal or professional writing. It's generally too informal and can come across as dismissive. Opt for more professional phrases like "I understand" or "I am aware" to maintain a respectful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I know I know" functions as an acknowledgment response. It is often used when someone is repeating information that the speaker already knows, conveying a sense of agreement and sometimes a mild exasperation, as shown in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I know I know" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to acknowledge information, often with a hint of impatience or amusement. As highlighted by Ludwig, its primary function is to signal understanding, while its informal register makes it suitable for casual conversations. Although very frequent in News & Media, it's best to avoid it in formal writing. Consider alternatives like "I understand, I understand" to adapt to different situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I understand, I understand

Replaces "know" with "understand", emphasizing comprehension rather than simple awareness.

I get it, I get it

Uses a more casual and concise expression of understanding, suitable for informal contexts.

I'm aware, I'm aware

Substitutes "know" with "aware", highlighting a conscious recognition of a fact or situation.

I realize, I realize

Emphasizes the process of coming to understand or recognize something.

Yes, I know

Adds a simple affirmation, useful for short confirmations or when agreeing to a known fact.

I am well aware

Highlights one's high level of awareness or cognizance about a specific matter.

Duly noted

Expresses acknowledgement of information but is more formal and less conversational.

Understood

A shorter, more direct way of conveying comprehension, often used in professional contexts.

Got it, got it

An informal way of saying that someone understands what has been said.

Point taken

Indicates acceptance of a point or argument, even if not in complete agreement.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "I know I know"?

The phrase "I know I know" is best used in informal settings to express acknowledgment, often with a hint of exasperation or amusement. It's suitable when someone is reiterating something you already understand.

What are some alternatives to "I know I know"?

You can use alternatives like "I understand, I understand", "I get it, I get it", or "I'm aware, I'm aware" depending on the context and desired tone.

Is "I know I know" grammatically correct?

Yes, "I know I know" is grammatically correct, although it's more of a colloquial expression than a formal construction. It's perfectly acceptable in casual conversation.

How does the tone of "I know I know" differ from a simple "I know"?

Repeating "I know" adds emphasis and can convey a sense of slight impatience, amusement, or even resignation. It acknowledges not just the information, but also the act of it being repeated. Compared to a simple “I know”, the tone is different.