known each other

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "known each other" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to a mutual acquaintance or relationship between two or more people. Example: "They have known each other since childhood." Alternative expressions include "been acquainted" and "familiar with each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They have known each other for years.

The New York Times - Sports

We have known each other many years".

The Guardian - Sport

"We've known each other for 29 years.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

We'd known each other for three months.

The Guardian - Film

Most had known each other for years.

The New Yorker

They've known each other for years.

The New York Times

They have known each other since birth.

The New York Times

"So they would have known each other.

The Guardian - Opinion

Katherine: "We've known each other 30 years.

The New York Times - Magazine

How long have we known each other?

The New York Times - Arts

We've known each other since 10th grade".

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Specify the duration or context of the relationship (e.g., "They have known each other for years", or "They've known each other since college") to provide more clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "each other" when referring to a single person; "each other" implies a reciprocal relationship between two or more individuals. Instead of saying "He known each other", use "He knows himself" or rephrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "known each other" functions as a reciprocal verb phrase, indicating a mutual relationship or acquaintance between two or more individuals. Ludwig shows many examples of its use in describing relationships that have developed over time. The auxiliary verb ("have", "had", etc.) indicates the tense and duration of knowing each other.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "known each other" is a common and versatile way to describe a relationship between individuals. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, especially in News & Media. The phrase implies a mutual acquaintance or familiarity that has developed over time. Related phrases like "been acquainted" or "are familiar with one another" offer alternative ways to express similar relationships, with slight differences in formality or emphasis. When using "known each other", specify the duration or context of the relationship for clarity. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is suitable for general use and easily understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

been acquainted

Replaces "known" with a synonym indicating a formal level of familiarity.

are familiar with one another

Uses a more formal and reciprocal structure to express mutual familiarity.

recognize each other

Focuses on recognition, without implying deep familiarity.

have a relationship

Indicates a connection without specifying the level of familiarity.

have a history

Highlights a shared past, suggesting some level of familiarity developed over time.

have interacted

Focuses on the action of interaction, implying some level of awareness.

are not strangers

Emphasizes the absence of complete unfamiliarity.

are on speaking terms

Implies a basic level of communication and recognition.

are associates

Suggests a professional or formal connection.

have crossed paths

Indicates a brief or incidental acquaintance.

FAQs

How can I use "known each other" in a sentence?

You can use "known each other" to describe a mutual relationship, such as "They have "known each other" since childhood" or "We've "known each other" for many years".

What are some alternatives to "known each other"?

Some alternatives include "been acquainted", "are familiar with one another", or "have a relationship", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "knew each other" instead of "known each other"?

Yes, both are grammatically correct, but they have different tenses. "Knew each other" is past tense (e.g., "They knew each other in high school"), while ""known each other"" is often used in the present perfect tense (e.g., "They have "known each other" for years").

What's the difference between "known each other" and "met each other"?

"Met each other" refers to the initial encounter, while ""known each other"" implies an ongoing acquaintance or relationship after that initial meeting.