know-how

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "know-how" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to practical knowledge or expertise in a particular area or field. Example: "The company has the know-how to develop innovative solutions for complex problems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Tech know-how.

Forbes

Accumulate industry know-how.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

We know how.

The New York Times - Sports

"We don't know how.

The New Yorker

"I wouldn't know how".

The New York Times

They didn't know how?

The New York Times

"He didn't know how".

The New York Times - Sports

I didn't know how".

The New York Times - Sports

"I don't know how.

The New York Times

"We know how to persevere".

The New York Times

They know how to dress.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing practical application, use "know-how" to highlight experience-based knowledge over theoretical understanding.

Common error

While "know-how" is widely understood, in highly formal or academic writing, consider using more precise alternatives like "expertise" or "proficiency" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "know-how" is as a noun, referring to the practical knowledge and skills required to perform a task effectively. As Ludwig AI explains, it denotes the ability to do something correctly.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science & Research

50%

Wiki

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "know-how" is a noun referring to practical knowledge and skills needed to perform a task. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While it's versatile, consider more formal alternatives like "expertise" in academic writing. Its frequency is rare, appearing in news and science contexts. Use it to emphasize practical application, and remember to spell it with a hyphen. Related terms include "expertise" and "technical skill".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expertise

Focuses on deep, specialized knowledge in a particular area, implying mastery and authority.

technical skill

Highlights the practical ability and proficiency in using tools, techniques, or systems.

practical knowledge

Emphasizes the understanding gained through experience rather than theoretical learning.

proficiency

Refers to a high degree of competence or skill, often acquired through training or practice.

competence

Indicates the ability to perform a task successfully or efficiently.

mastery

Implies a comprehensive and thorough command of a skill or subject.

skill set

Refers to a collection of skills and abilities that an individual possesses.

talent

Highlights a natural aptitude or ability for a particular activity or skill.

ability

Denotes the general capacity to perform a task or activity.

aptitude

Indicates a natural tendency or inclination towards a particular skill or learning.

FAQs

How do you use "know-how" in a sentence?

"Know-how" functions as a noun, referring to the knowledge and skill needed to do something. For example, "The success of the project depended on the team's technical know-how."

What can I say instead of "know-how"?

You can use alternatives like "expertise", "technical skill", or "practical knowledge" depending on the specific context.

Is "know how" two words, or "know-how" one word?

The correct spelling is "know-how" with a hyphen. "Know how" as two separate words functions differently in a sentence, typically as a verb phrase (e.g., "Do you know how to fix it?").

What's the difference between "know-how" and "knowledge"?

"Know-how" implies a practical ability or skill, while "knowledge" refers to a broader understanding of a subject. You might have knowledge about a topic, but lack the "know-how" to apply it.