The verbs know, meet, and the phrase be familiar with all relate to having information about people or things, but they are used in different ways and contexts.
- Know means you have information or understanding about someone or something — you recognize, remember, or understand them.
- Meet means to encounter or be introduced to someone for the first time.
- Be familiar with means you have some knowledge or experience with something, but not necessarily in depth.
Usage of "know"
Know means having information, recognition, or understanding about a person, place, or thing. It is used when you have prior experience or awareness.
- You can know people, facts, skills, places, etc.
- It does not focus on when you learned it, just that you have the knowledge.
- It is a state verb (describes a condition, not an action).
Examples
- I know Sarah — we went to school together.
- Do you know how to play the guitar?
- I know Paris very well.
Usage of "meet"
Meet means to come into contact with someone for the first time, or to be introduced. It focuses on the moment of encountering someone.
- You can meet people (not things).
- It can refer to arranged meetings or chance encounters.
- Past tense is often *met*.
Examples
- I met my best friend in college.
- Let’s meet at the café at 3 pm.
- I met the author at a book signing.
Usage of "be familiar with"
Be familiar with means having some knowledge or experience with something, but not necessarily complete understanding. It implies a basic or casual awareness.
- Used mainly with things, topics, or skills (less often with people).
- It suggests more than just hearing about something, but not full mastery.
- Formed with the verb be + familiar with.
Examples
- I’m familiar with Microsoft Excel.
- Are you familiar with the new company policies?
- She’s familiar with several European cultures.
Is 'be familiar with' more commonly used with people or things/topics?
Things, topics, or skills (less often with people).
'Be familiar with' is used mainly when talking about things, topics, or skills.
Comparing "know" and "be familiar with"
Both mean having knowledge, but:
- Know implies clear, certain understanding.
- Be familiar with implies a more limited or surface-level awareness.
Examples
| English Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| I know the rules. | You understand the rules clearly. |
| I’m familiar with the rules. | You have some idea about the rules, but maybe not in detail. |
Which one implies a clearer and more certain understanding: 'know' or 'be familiar with'?
know
'Know' indicates more certainty and clarity, while 'be familiar with' suggests a more basic or partial awareness.
Using "know" with people
- Use know when you already have a relationship or acquaintance.
- Use meet for the first introduction or encounter.
Examples
| English Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| I know John — he’s my neighbor. | You have already met and recognize John. |
| I met John yesterday. | You encountered John for the first time recently. |
Key Takeaways
- Use meet when referring to an initial introduction or encounter.
- Use know when you already have awareness or understanding about someone or something.
- Use be familiar with when you have some, but not deep, knowledge or experience.
Flashcards (1 of 4)
- Explanation: You understand the rules clearly.
- English Example: I know the rules.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
