what you know

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what you know" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone's knowledge or understanding of a particular subject or situation. Example: "In this discussion, I want to focus on what you know about the project and how we can build on that."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Personal Integrity is knowing what you know.

WikiHow

— What? — You know.

The New Yorker

What you know about?

The Guardian

Tell me what you know.

Columbia University

So it doesn't matter what you know".

The New Yorker

Write about what you know...

The New Yorker

"Just do what you know".

The New York Times - Arts

It becomes what you know.

The Guardian

Now you tell me what you know".

The Economist

So forget "write what you know".

The New York Times

That old dictum, write what you know?

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "what you know", ensure the context clearly defines the subject or area of knowledge you're referencing. This avoids ambiguity and enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "what you know" in contexts where specific details are needed. Instead of saying "Use what you know", provide concrete instructions or examples to guide the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what you know" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It refers to the collective knowledge or understanding that someone possesses, as Ludwig AI confirms. For example, "Tell me what you know." functions as the direct object of the verb 'tell'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

20%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science & Research

14%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what you know" is a versatile and grammatically correct expression used to refer to one's accumulated knowledge or understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academia, it serves to elicit information, emphasize existing knowledge, or provide advice. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to ensure clarity by providing sufficient context and avoiding overgeneralization. Alternatives like "your understanding" or "your expertise" may be more suitable in formal settings. Using this information will ensure accurate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Your understanding

Focuses on the comprehension aspect of what is known.

Your awareness

Emphasizes being conscious or informed about something.

Your expertise

Highlights specialized knowledge in a particular area.

What you're familiar with

Stresses the aspect of having experience or acquaintance with something.

Your grasp of the subject

Focuses on the depth and completeness of one's understanding.

What you're sure of

Indicates a state of certainty or confidence in one's knowledge.

The information you possess

Highlights the ownership and availability of knowledge.

Your accumulated knowledge

Highlights the gradual increase of knowledge over time.

Your learned insights

Emphasizes insights gained through study or experience.

Your intellectual capital

Presents knowledge as a valuable asset.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "what you know" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "your understanding", "your expertise", or "the information you possess" to replace "what you know". Each of these alternatives, such as "your understanding", can add a layer of professionalism depending on the context.

When is it better to use "what you know" versus "what you think"?

"What you know" should be used when referring to factual information or established knowledge, while "what you think" is appropriate for opinions, beliefs, or subjective viewpoints. Use "what you know" when accuracy is crucial.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "what you know"?

While grammatically correct, "what you know" can be vague. It's best to avoid using it when specific details or a more precise term would provide greater clarity. Ensure the context makes clear what the "what you know" refers to.

What are some common sayings that include "what you know"?

Common sayings include "write what you know", advising writers to draw from their own experiences, and "you don't know what you don't know", highlighting the limits of one's awareness. The phrase "write what you know" serves as advice in writing.