know how to do sth
fixed phr..fixed phr.. To have the skill or knowledge needed to do something. You use this when you have learned an ability and can now perform it.
fixed phr.. A verbal construction expressing acquired skill or practical ability, where the verb 'know' is complemented by a 'wh-infinitive' clause (how + to-infinitive).
He knows how to cook.
She knows how to drive, but she doesn't own a car.
Knowing how to de-escalate tense situations is a critical skill for anyone in a leadership position.
The verb 'do' is a placeholder; replace it with any action verb, like 'swim', 'code', or 'negotiate'.
Contrast with 'can', which expresses general ability or permission, whereas 'know how to' specifically implies a learned skill or procedure.
I know to swim.I know how to swim.To express an ability, 'know' must be followed by 'how to' before the action verb.