know next to nothing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "know next to nothing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a very limited understanding or knowledge about a particular subject or topic. Example: "When it comes to quantum physics, I know next to nothing, but I'm eager to learn more."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We know next to nothing about them.

The New York Times

Because voters know next to nothing about his competitor.

The New York Times

Except, of course, we know next to nothing about him.

The Guardian - Books

And according to Mr. Bauerlein, they know next to nothing.

The New York Times

So we know next to nothing about her.

The New York Times

"I'll admit I know next to nothing about prices of Buddha heads".

The New York Times - Magazine

But even when you know all this, you still know next to nothing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

For everything we know about her parents, we know next to nothing about her.

The New York Times - Magazine

Of Shakespeare, we know next to nothing; of Dickens we know next to everything.

The Guardian - Books

Shoppers know next to nothing about the environmental impacts of the products they buy.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He knew next to nothing about Oregon.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "know next to nothing" to express a significant lack of knowledge on a specific topic, implying a near-total absence of understanding. For example: "I know next to nothing about astrophysics, but I'm fascinated by it."

Common error

Avoid using "know next to nothing" when you possess some basic understanding of the subject. Instead, use phrases like "know very little" or "have limited knowledge" to more accurately reflect your level of understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "know next to nothing" functions as a declarative statement expressing a severe lack of knowledge or understanding about a specific subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

14%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "know next to nothing" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a significant lack of knowledge about a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media, but also in scientific and general discussions. While acceptable, it leans towards a neutral to informal register and might not be ideal for highly formal settings. When aiming for a professional or academic tone, alternatives like "have minimal knowledge" or "lack expertise" may be more suitable. This phrase effectively conveys a near-complete absence of understanding, as evidenced by the diverse range of examples available.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

know very little

A more straightforward way of expressing a lack of knowledge.

have limited knowledge

Focuses on the restriction of knowledge, rather than complete absence.

possess scant information

Emphasizes the small amount of information available.

be poorly informed

Indicates a lack of adequate information.

be largely ignorant

Highlights a general state of unawareness.

lack expertise

Highlights the absence of specialized knowledge or skill.

have a rudimentary understanding

Suggests a very basic level of comprehension.

have a superficial grasp

Suggests a shallow or incomplete understanding.

be unfamiliar with

Indicates a lack of familiarity or experience.

be clueless about

An informal way of expressing complete ignorance.

FAQs

How can I use "know next to nothing" in a sentence?

You can use "know next to nothing" to express that you have very limited or almost no knowledge about a particular subject. For example, "I "know next to nothing" about gardening, but I'm willing to learn."

What's a less direct way to say "know next to nothing"?

Alternatives include "know very little", "have limited knowledge", or "be unfamiliar with" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Which is more appropriate, "know next to nothing" or "know nothing"?

"Know nothing" implies a complete absence of knowledge. "Know next to nothing" suggests a slight, but ultimately insignificant, amount of knowledge. The better choice depends on the accuracy of the statement.

Is it okay to use "know next to nothing" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "know next to nothing" leans towards informal. In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "have minimal knowledge" or "lack expertise in" for a more professional tone.