French verb overview explaining the difference between savoir and connaître, including usage, meaning, and examples.
In French, there are two verbs for “to know”: savoir and connaître. They have different meanings and are used in different contexts. Savoir means “to know” a fact, piece of information, or how to do something. Connaître means “to know” or “be familiar with” a person, place, or thing.
- Savoir = know facts, information, or how to do something
- Connaître = be familiar with or meet someone/something
- Usage depends on the object (clause vs. noun)
Usage of Savoir
Savoir is used when talking about knowledge, facts, or abilities. It can be followed by a clause (que, si, quand), an infinitive, or a question word (qui, quoi, comment).
Examples
- Je sais où il habite. (I know where he lives.)
- Nous savons parler français. (We know how to speak French.)
- Sais-tu qu’elle vient ce soir ? (Do you know that she’s coming tonight?)
Summary
- Savoir + clause (que, si, quand, où, pourquoi…)
- Savoir + infinitive (savoir + verb)
- Savoir + question word (qui, quoi, comment…)
Usage of Connaître
Connaître is used when talking about being familiar with or meeting people, places, or things. It is always followed by a noun or pronoun.
Examples
- Je connais cette ville. (I know this city.)
- Elle connaît Paul. (She knows Paul.)
- Connaissez-vous ce restaurant ? (Do you know this restaurant?)
Summary
- Connaître + noun/pronoun (person, place, thing)
- Used for familiarity or acquaintance
Key Difference in Meaning
The main difference between savoir and connaître is the type of knowledge:
- Savoir = knowledge of facts, information, or skills
- Connaître = familiarity or acquaintance with someone or something
What is the correct English translation of: 'Je connais Anne.'?
I know Anne.
'Je connais Anne' means 'I am acquainted with Anne' or simply 'I know Anne.' 'Connaître' is used for people.
Common Mistakes
- Je sais Paul. (Incorrect: use connaître)
- Je connais Paul. (Correct)
- Je connais parler français. (Incorrect: use savoir)
- Je sais parler français. (Correct)
- Sais-tu Paul ? (Incorrect: use connaître)
- Connais-tu Paul ? (Correct)
Which question is correct and why?
Connais-tu Paul ? (Correct because 'connaître' is used for knowing people.)
'Connaître' is used in questions about familiarity with people. 'Savoir' should not be followed directly by a person’s name.
Summary
| Savoir | Connaître |
|---|---|
| Know facts, information, or how to do something | Be familiar with or meet someone/something |
| Followed by clause, infinitive, or question word | Followed by noun or pronoun |
| Example: Je sais nager. (I know how to swim.) | Example: Je connais Anne. (I know Anne.) |
Last updated: Thu Jun 12, 2025
