knowing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "knowing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express awareness or understanding of a particular fact or situation. Example: "Knowing the risks involved, she decided to proceed with caution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Likely Rubio presidential opponent Jeb Bush had told a questioner days earlier that "knowing what we know now", he still "would have" authorized the 2003 invasion of Iraq had he been president.

The Guardian

There was of course no way of knowing whether you were being watched at any given moment.

The Guardian - Tech

They did try, but I think it was a case of mismanagement and not knowing how to deal with disability effectively".

The Guardian

This was standing next to a nuclear bomb and not knowing how to dismantle it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

While it can be hard to tell at times whether or not she's in on the joke, in some moments (like this birthday tribute to Madonna) she's a knowing comedic genius, and it's clear that she's trying to make herself laugh as much as anyone else.

The Guardian

During her caliper readjustment Sharadamma looks at Ranoo, smiles and says 'I want to be like you when I'm older.' Ranoo smiles back faintly, knowing that despite all the work she has done, without major changes in government policy and society, Sharadamma will struggle to realise her ambitions.

The Guardian

Partly, this is smugness at knowing things others did not, all the more so if you have turned them on in the process, but beyond that, it is impossible not to find joy in a journey and its realisation that helps make the vicarious direct.

The Guardian - Sport

THe Algeria midfielder holds his head in his hands, knowing he should have done better.

The Guardian - Sport

"I have to find Laust," concludes Peter, little knowing he is nearby with the rest of his unit.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

There's no way of knowing if your patients are all going to stay stable, or if there is an imminent major disaster with all casualties needing immediate medical assessment and treatment – and I wouldn't have it any other way.

The Guardian

Daily Beast said that "knowing the right people — or having the right look — can get you into the most exclusive of spots" and Vice once claimed that "the concept of the VIP has become a national obsession".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "knowing" to emphasize the state of awareness or understanding as a continuous action. For instance, "knowing the risks" implies an ongoing assessment.

Common error

Ensure that the context clearly indicates what the subject is "knowing". Avoid vague references that leave the reader unsure of the object of knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "knowing" is as a gerund or present participle, often used to describe a state of awareness or understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage aligns with standard English grammar.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Sport

15%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Opinion

8%

Music

7%

World

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "knowing" is a very common and grammatically correct term used to describe the state of being aware or understanding something. Ludwig AI confirms this. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, including News & Media, Sport and Lifestyle. While "knowing" is generally well-understood, it's crucial to ensure clarity by explicitly specifying the object of knowledge. Alternatives such as "being aware" or "understanding" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Being aware

Focuses on the state of being conscious or informed about something, similar to possessing knowledge.

Understanding

Emphasizes comprehension and insight, going beyond simple awareness.

Realizing

Highlights the moment of becoming aware or understanding something.

Cognizant of

A more formal way of saying "aware of", indicating a deliberate acknowledgment.

Appreciating

Implies a deeper understanding and valuing of something.

Recognizing

Focuses on identifying or acknowledging something previously unknown.

Grasping

Indicates a firm understanding or comprehension of something complex.

Perceiving

Emphasizes the sensory or intuitive awareness of something.

Discerning

Suggests a keen ability to distinguish or recognize subtle differences.

Comprehending

Focuses on the mental process of understanding and assimilating information.

FAQs

How can I use "knowing" in a sentence?

"Knowing" can be used as a gerund or present participle to describe a state of awareness or understanding. For example, "knowing the risks, she proceeded cautiously."

What are some alternatives to using "knowing"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "being aware", "understanding", or "realizing".

Is it correct to start a sentence with "knowing"?

Yes, starting a sentence with "knowing" is grammatically correct, as it can function as a gerund. Example: "Knowing the answer, she raised her hand."

What is the difference between "knowing" and "being aware"?

"Knowing" implies a confirmed understanding or certainty, while "being aware" suggests a general consciousness or perception, which might not be as firm as knowing.