In Spanish, knowledge and acquaintance are expressed with two distinct verbs: saber and conocer. While both mean "to know," they are not interchangeable. Saber is used for knowing facts, information, or how to do something (skills), whereas conocer is used for being familiar with or acquainted with people, places, or things.
- Saber: to know facts, information, or how to do something.
- Conocer: to know/be familiar with/acquainted with people, places, or things.
*Saber* is used for knowing facts or information.
Yes, 'conocer' is used for being familiar with places like cities.
'Conocer' primarily means to be acquainted with or familiar with someone or something.
When to Use Saber
Use saber when referring to:
- Knowing facts or information (saber + que, cuándo, dónde...)
- Knowing how to do something (a skill) (saber + infinitive)
- Knowing something by heart (e.g., a poem, a list)
Examples:
- Yo sé la respuesta. (I know the answer.)
- ¿Sabes nadar? (Do you know how to swim?)
- Ella sabe donde está el museo. (She knows where the museum is.)
Use 'saber' for facts, information, or knowing how to do something.
Yes, 'saber' is used for knowing information like a phone number.
When to Use Conocer
Use conocer when referring to:
- Being acquainted with or meeting someone (conocer a alguien = to meet/get to know someone)
- Being familiar with a place or city
- Being familiar with a book, movie, or something you can “experience” or “know” in a personal way
Examples:
- Conozco a María. (I know María / I’m acquainted with María.)
- ¿Conoces Madrid? (Do you know Madrid?)
- Ellos conocen esa película. (They know that movie.)
'Conocer' is used for knowing people, meeting them, or being familiar with places.
'Conocer' is used when you are familiar with or know a restaurant.
Summary
| Verb | Meaning of 'to know' | Usage Cases | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saber | To know (facts, info) | Facts, info, skills/abilities | Sé la verdad. / Sé nadar. |
| Conocer | To know/be familiar with | People, places, acquaintances | Conozco a Juan. / Conozco París. |