I should know that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I should know that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a sense of obligation or expectation to be aware of something. Example: "After all the discussions we've had, I should know that the deadline is next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

As an analyst, I should know that talking protects and connects us in meaningful ways.

The New York Times

But no, I should know that lesson by now.

Huffington Post

I should know that.

The New York Times

I should "know" that they're not included.

The New Yorker

"Seems like I should know that, doesn't it?

The New Yorker

"Yes," Jones retorted, "but I should know that I was a rascal.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

I thought he should know that but I had no way to tell him.

Huffington Post

I feel people should know that movie.

Huffington Post

I should know, because that is how I felt when they were cheering for me".

The New York Times

I've been playing the game my whole life, and I should know better than that".

The New York Times - Sports

But, I think you should know that I actually have been working.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I should know that" when you want to express a mild self-reproach or expectation that you possess certain knowledge due to your experience or role. For example, "As a project manager, "I should know that" deadlines are often subject to change".

Common error

While "I should know that" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal writing. In such contexts, opt for more direct and assertive alternatives like "It is my understanding that..." or "I am aware that...".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I should know that" functions as a declarative statement expressing an expectation or obligation of knowing something. It often carries a sense of self-reproach or mild regret. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I should know that" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express an expectation or obligation to be aware of something, often accompanied by a mild sense of self-reproach. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to slightly informal contexts. Related phrases include "I ought to know that" and "I should be aware of that", offering subtle variations in emphasis. When writing, avoid overuse in highly formal settings and ensure the phrase aligns with the intended tone. The phrase is frequently found in News & Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I ought to know that

Replaces "should" with "ought to", implying a moral obligation or duty to know something.

I should be aware of that

Focuses on the state of being informed or conscious of a particular fact or situation.

I am expected to know that

Emphasizes an external expectation or requirement to possess certain knowledge.

I really should know that

Adds emphasis to the speaker's self-reproach for not knowing something.

I'm supposed to know that

Suggests a pre-existing arrangement or instruction that implies the speaker should be informed.

It stands to reason that I know that

Highlights the logical or rational basis for the speaker's presumed knowledge.

It's only logical that I know that

Underscores the self-evident or obvious nature of the speaker's presumed awareness.

I am aware of that

States a simple recognition or consciousness of a fact.

I understand that

Implies a comprehension or grasp of the information.

As a matter of fact, I know that

Highlights the speaker's actual knowledge, possibly in response to a challenge or doubt.

FAQs

What does "I should know that" imply?

The phrase "I should know that" implies a sense of obligation or expectation to be aware of something due to one's experience, role, or prior knowledge. It can also carry a hint of self-reproach for not knowing something already.

When is it appropriate to use "I should know that" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "I should know that" in situations where you're acknowledging a piece of information that you feel you ideally ought to have internalized already, such as "As a seasoned traveler, "I should know that" packing light is essential."

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

You can use alternatives like "I ought to know that", "I am expected to know that", or "I should be aware of that" depending on the context.

Is "I should have known that" grammatically different from "I should know that"?

Yes, "I should have known that" refers to a past realization or regret, implying you failed to recognize something earlier. "I should know that" refers to a present expectation or obligation to have current knowledge. The first one is talking about the past, while the second one is more general and current.