English Reference
Idiom idiom

know the score


To be aware of a situation, especially of the consequences of misconduct.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

Don't try to trick him, he knows the score.

CONTEXTUAL

The new manager knows the score, so do not expect to get away with being late every day.

COMPLEX

Having navigated the cutthroat world of corporate politics for decades, she knew the score and refused to be manipulated by the board's empty promises.


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    as far as one knows

    To the best of one's knowledge, as far as someone knows or possible information to be gathered about the topic, subject, aspect, or situation.

  2. 02

    as you know

    as it is already known.

  3. 03

    even the score

    To seek or obtain revenge against someone.

  4. 04

    four score and seven years ago

    Used (sometimes sarcastically) to indicate that a past event being mentioned is particularly important: a long time ago; many years ago.

  5. 05

    fuck if I know

    I have no idea whatsoever

  6. 06

    fuck knows

    I don't know; nobody knows; it is unclear.

  7. 07

    go off at score

    To break suddenly into a gallop.

  8. 08

    hell if I know

    Synonym of I don't know.

Last updated August 10, 2026