know what is what
To understand the current situation; to know what is going on.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Ask the manager because she knows what is what.”
“After working here for ten years, he really knows what is what in this industry.”
“The seasoned diplomat navigated the complex negotiations with ease, as she clearly knew what is what regarding the regional political tensions.”
- 01
ain't what it used to was
Is not what it used to be; (expressing nostalgia).
- 02
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.
- 03
as you know
as it is already known.
- 04
come what may
In spite of anything that might happen; whatever may occur.
- 05
do exactly what it says on the tin
To do what is described or what one would expect, with no further explanation needed.
- 06
do what
An intensified version of what? or huh?, expressing surprise or lack of comprehension
- 07
fuck if I know
I have no idea whatsoever
- 08
fuck knows
I don't know; nobody knows; it is unclear.
Last updated August 10, 2026