In Spanish, there are two verbs that translate to "to know": saber and conocer. Although they both mean knowing, they are used in different contexts. Saber is used for knowing facts, information, and how to do something. Conocer is used for being familiar with people, places, or things.
Usage
- Saber + (que) / (si) / question word / infinitive (before a verb)
- Conocer + a + [person] / conocer + [place or thing]
- Use saber for facts, information, and abilities.
- Use conocer for familiarities and meeting someone for the first time.
- You never use conocer + infinitive.
- You always use a before a person with conocer.
Conjugation Patterns
| Pronoun | Saber (to know) | Conocer (to know / to be familiar with) |
|---|---|---|
| yo | sé | conozco |
| tú | sabes | conoces |
| él/ella/usted | sabe | conoce |
| nosotros/as | sabemos | conocemos |
| vosotros/as | sabéis | conocéis |
| ellos/as/ustedes | saben | conocen |
Conjugate 'saber' in the first person plural (nosotros/as) form.
sabemos
The nosotros/as form of 'saber' is 'sabemos,' following the regular -er verb pattern.
Examples
| Context | Saber Example | Conocer Example |
|---|---|---|
| Facts | Sé que 2 + 2 es 4. (I know that 2 + 2 is 4.) | Conozco la historia de España. (I am familiar with the history of Spain.) |
| Abilities | Sé hablar francés. (I know how to speak French.) | — (Not applicable) |
| People | — (Not applicable) | Conozco a María. (I know María / I have met María.) |
| Places/Things | — (Not applicable) | Conozco París. (I am familiar with Paris.) |
Identify the saber example that expresses a fact.
Sé que 2 + 2 es 4.
'Sé que 2 + 2 es 4.' states a fact using 'saber que'.
Summary
- Use saber when you are talking about knowledge, facts, or how to do something.
- Use conocer when you are talking about being familiar with, meeting, or knowing people and places.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
