only know that

USAGE SUMMARY

'only know that' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that you have limited knowledge about the topic at hand. For example: "I was never close with my grandmother, so I only know that she had an affinity for baking pies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

I only know that I'm always nervous.

The New Yorker

You only know that you've requested it.

The New York Times

I only know that I had to.

The New York Times

"I only know that I enjoyed it.

The Guardian - Books

I only know that I want to do it".

The New York Times

I only know that it hits me harder every time.

The New Yorker

We only know that he subsequently declined an interview.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

And maybe you can only know that after the caper".

The Guardian

"I only know that I have stopped wearing fur".

The New York Times

I only know that the Chechens attacked us at night.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

And you only know that he might never come back.

Unicef

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only know that" to clearly define the boundaries of your knowledge on a topic, preventing assumptions or misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "only know that" when you actually possess more in-depth knowledge. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing the limits of your understanding, not downplaying your expertise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only know that" primarily functions as a declarative phrase that introduces a statement of limited certainty or knowledge. It signals that the speaker is aware of a specific fact or piece of information, but that their understanding or information on the topic is restricted. This usage is supported by numerous examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "only know that" serves as a versatile tool for expressing limited knowledge or certainty in various contexts. Ludwig AI affirms that it's grammatically correct and widely used. The phrase is found frequently in news, media, and scientific sources, denoting a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. To use it effectively, ensure you're genuinely conveying a limitation of knowledge and not understating expertise. Alternatives like "merely aware that" and "simply understand that" can offer nuanced variations. Remember, its strength lies in clearly defining the scope of your understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

merely aware that

Emphasizes a basic level of awareness without detailed understanding, suggesting a slight difference in depth of knowledge compared to "only know that".

simply understand that

Focuses on the straightforward comprehension of a fact, possibly implying a lack of deeper analysis, differing slightly from the nuanced limitation in "only know that".

just recognize that

Highlights the act of acknowledging a fact, possibly without fully grasping its implications, setting it apart subtly from the confining aspect of "only know that".

can only confirm that

Indicates that the information is verified to some extent but not deeply explored, offering a slightly different scope than "only know that".

all I can say is that

Emphasizes that there is nothing more to add on the subject.

the extent of my knowledge is that

Focuses on setting a clear boundary to one's knowledge.

my limited understanding is that

Highlights the fact that comprehension may be incomplete.

all that is known is that

Focuses on emphasizing the limited nature of a shared knowledge.

what I do understand is that

Puts emphasis on the understanding the speaker possesses, even if it's not extensive.

I'm only certain that

Emphasizes that there is nothing more to add on the subject.

FAQs

How can I use "only know that" in a sentence?

Use "only know that" to introduce a piece of information you are certain about, while implying that your knowledge on the subject is limited. For example: "I "only know that" the meeting starts at 2 PM, I don't know where it will be held."

What are some alternatives to "only know that"?

You can use alternatives like "merely aware that", "simply understand that", or "just recognize that" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "only know that"?

Yes, "only know that" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written and spoken English to express limited knowledge or certainty about a specific fact.

What is the difference between "only know that" and "simply know that"?

"Only know that" emphasizes the limited scope of your knowledge, while "simply know that" implies a basic or straightforward understanding without necessarily highlighting any limitations.