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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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a better know how

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a better know how" is not correct in written English.
It seems to be a mix-up of "a better know-how," which refers to improved knowledge or expertise in a particular area. Example: "To succeed in this industry, we need a better know-how of the latest technologies."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

And if you have a blog, you better know how to socialize your content (using techniques like news feeds to boost your visibility on social media), or your carefully designed posts will remain stuck on a lonely little digital island.

"When you get this many people giving money in an economy like this and handing it over to an organization, you better know how to manage it".

News & Media

The New York Times

If you are getting into the space to make a quick buck, you better know how to earn that quick buck.

News & Media

Forbes

"Politics is not a clean game, but you better know how to play the game," Buzz Walters, a friend of Mr. Boyd who runs a tire shop in nearby Rogersville, said on a recent morning as the political talk among several friends grew heated.

News & Media

The New York Times

In other words, if we're going to give doctors a license to kill, they better know how to use it.

Hopefully, those agents will better know how to handle a family with a special needs child.

News & Media

HuffPost

It's not enough to spell out the word "stent" to a cardiology patient, Moody said: "You better know how to picture the heart".

News & Media

The New Yorker

Pasta technology may have surpassed the chitarra, but to be considered a serious cook in Abruzzo you better know how to play that guitar.

It could be argued that the Uganda research, part of a larger study of sexually transmitted diseases among 15,127 people, was an opportunity for scientists to observe the progress and spread of a deadly disease so they could better know how to prevent it in the future.

News & Media

The New York Times

But prospectors better know how to use a submersible, because this deposit is under nearly 1300 meters of water.

Science & Research

Science Magazine

If you're lucky enough to secure a credit line in this nasty economic environment, you better know how and when to use it.

News & Media

Forbes
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to improved knowledge or skills, consider using "enhanced expertise" or "improved understanding" instead of the grammatically questionable phrase "a better know how".

Common error

Avoid using "a better know how". The correct expression for improved knowledge or skill is "a better know-how". Alternatively, use "enhanced expertise" or "improved understanding".

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

60%

Authority and reliability

1/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a better know how" attempts to function as a noun phrase, aiming to describe improved knowledge or skill. However, according to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically incorrect in written English. The correct form is "a better know-how."

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "a better know how" might seem intuitive, it is grammatically incorrect in written English. Ludwig AI suggests the correct form is "a better know-how", which refers to improved knowledge or expertise. Alternatives such as "enhanced expertise" or "improved understanding" are recommended for formal and professional contexts. The absence of real-world examples emphasizes the importance of using grammatically sound and widely accepted phrases in your writing.

FAQs

What's a grammatically correct alternative to "a better know how"?

The grammatically correct alternative is "a better "know-how"", referring to improved expertise. Consider using "enhanced expertise" or "improved understanding".

Is "a better know how" acceptable in formal writing?

No, "a better know how" is not acceptable in formal writing. Opt for phrases like "enhanced expertise" or "a better "know-how"" for a more polished and professional tone.

How can I improve my "know how"?

To improve your "know-how", focus on continuous learning, practical application, and seeking feedback from experts in your field. Note that the phrase is "know-how", not "know how".

What's the difference between "know how" and "expertise"?

"Know-how" refers to the practical knowledge and skills to do something, while "expertise" is broader, encompassing both knowledge and skill developed through experience. You can improve your "know-how" to gain expertise.

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Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: