1 A2 neutral
To possess information or understanding about a particular subject or topic.
"She knows a lot about ancient Roman history."
“
I know about the economy and creating jobs.
— Mitt Romney, US Presidential Campaign, 2012
inseparable
know about
A2 neutral inseparable transitive
To have information, knowledge, or awareness regarding a subject, person, or situation.
In plain English
To have information about something or someone.
What does "know about" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 A2 neutral
To be aware that a specific event, situation, or fact exists or has occurred.
"Did you know about the meeting being moved to Thursday?"
inseparable
3 B1 idiomatic informal
(Used in questions with 'what') To express a suggestion or draw attention to a possibility.
"What do you know about getting some fresh air? You've been inside all day."
inseparable
Usage tip
Extremely common in everyday English. Often used in questions ('Do you know about...?') and negatives ('I didn't know about...'). Much broader and deeper than 'know of'.
Words that pair with "know about"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
problem plan news situation topic event
How to conjugate "know about"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
know about
I/you/we/they
3rd person
knows about
he/she/it
Past simple
knew about
yesterday
Past participle
known about
have + pp
-ing form
knowing about
continuous
Hear "know about" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "know about" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.