really really know

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "really really know" is correct and usable in written English, though it is informal.
You can use it to emphasize a strong understanding or familiarity with something, often in casual contexts. Example: "I really really know how to play the guitar after years of practice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Because children really, really know about quality," he said.

The Guardian

"I really, really know that I always want to be in her presence," Mr. Van Booy said.

The New York Times

"There's nothing like being surrounded by people who really, really know you".

The New York Times

On the role of international competition or the lack thereof in making decent wages possible: This stuff is my home field; it's an area where I really, really know what I'm talking about.

The New York Times

"As a user, I just love being able to say, 'Listen, I'm going to Baltimore; where's the real place for crab?' You'll get the guys who've tried all 95 crab places and really, really know".

The New York Times - Tech

When I talk to somebody about going in and taking that chair, I want to know that they really, really know what they're getting into and really want to do it, because it's really hard.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Greg gives us a thorough takedown by Tim Smeeding, who really really knows his inequality stuff.

The New York Times

"My husband — my incredible husband — really, really knows how to give a girl a bouquet of flowers".

The New Yorker

"Sandra really, really knows who she is and is very comfortable with that as a human being," her brother says.

The New York Times - Magazine

They are not big names, but as General Manager Billy Beane showed again last year, he really, really knows what he is doing.

The New York Times

The other really big upside of sharing childcare is that the other person knows - really, really knows - exactly what it's like.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "really really know" in informal settings to emphasize your confidence or familiarity with a topic. In formal writing, opt for stronger, more concise synonyms like "truly understand" or "deeply comprehend".

Common error

Avoid using "really really know" in academic papers or professional reports. Its informal tone can undermine your credibility. Instead, use more precise and formal alternatives like "thoroughly understand" or "possess extensive knowledge of" the subject matter.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "really really know" functions as a verb phrase emphasizing the depth or intensity of knowledge. It modifies the verb "know" to indicate a strong conviction or comprehensive understanding. Ludwig examples show it's used when speakers want to convey certainty or expertise.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "really really know" is a grammatically correct but informal way to emphasize one's understanding or familiarity with a subject. Ludwig AI indicates it is best suited for casual contexts, as its informal tone may be inappropriate for formal writing. Alternatives like "truly understand" or "deeply comprehend" are more suitable for professional or academic settings. Usage is common in News & Media and Wiki sources. To enhance clarity and maintain a professional tone in formal writing, consider using stronger synonyms and avoiding overuse of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Truly understand

Replaces the repeated "really" for a more concise emphasis on understanding.

Deeply comprehend

Uses a more formal and intense verb to convey a strong level of understanding.

Thoroughly grasp

Emphasizes the completeness of understanding something.

Have a profound knowledge of

Indicates extensive learning and expertise in a subject.

Possess an intimate familiarity with

Suggests a close and personal understanding of something.

Be keenly aware of

Highlights a sharp and perceptive understanding.

Genuinely appreciate

Emphasizes a sincere and heartfelt understanding.

Completely realize

Focuses on fully understanding and acknowledging something.

Be exceptionally versed in

Highlights deep knowledge and skill within a certain area.

Intuitively understand

Suggests an understanding that comes naturally, without conscious reasoning.

FAQs

How can I use "really really know" in a sentence?

You can use "really really know" to emphasize your certainty or deep understanding of something, as in "I "really really know" this material for the test" or "She "really really knows" her way around the city".

What are some alternatives to "really really know"?

Depending on the context, you can replace "really really know" with alternatives like "truly understand", "deeply comprehend", or "thoroughly grasp". These alternatives offer a more formal or nuanced way to express strong understanding.

Is "really really know" grammatically correct?

While grammatically acceptable, "really really know" is considered informal. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in casual contexts but suggests more formal alternatives for academic or professional writing.

When should I avoid using "really really know"?

Avoid using "really really know" in formal writing, such as academic papers, business reports, or official correspondence. Opt for more sophisticated and precise language to maintain a professional tone. Consider phrases like "profound knowledge of" or "intimate familiarity with" in such settings.