knowledge
n.-
1 understanding of a subject (n.) A2 Elementarythe information and understanding you have about a specific subject or situation.
the state of being familiar with or understanding a particular subject, place, or situation. Uncountable in this general sense.
ExampleShe has a deep knowledge of local history because she grew up in the village.
ExampleHis extensive knowledge of international maritime law made him an invaluable asset during the treaty negotiations.
Usageusually uncountable; often followed by the preposition 'of' or 'about'.
PitfallHe has many knowledges about history.He has a lot of knowledge about history.Knowledge is an uncountable noun; do not use it in the plural form.
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2 all that is known (n.) B1 Intermediateall the facts and information that people have discovered over time.
the sum total of what is known; the body of facts and principles accumulated by humankind.
ExampleThe internet has made it easier for everyone to access human knowledge.
ExampleThe library was designed as a monument to human knowledge, housing manuscripts that spanned three millennia of scientific discovery.
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3 London taxi test (n.) C1 Advanced British English Informalthe difficult test that London taxi drivers must pass to show they know every street in the city.
the rigorous examination of London's geography required for a taxicab licence. Often used with the definite article as 'The Knowledge'.
ExampleHe spent three years on his motorbike studying for The Knowledge before he could drive a black cab.
ExampleAspiring cabbies often spend years traversing the city's labyrinthine streets to master The Knowledge before sitting their final exams.
Usageusually appears as 'The Knowledge'.
Teacher's tipThis is a very specific cultural term; outside of the context of London taxis, it will not be understood.
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4 sexual intimacy (n.) C2 Proficiency Archaic Formal Technical Lawa very old-fashioned way to talk about having sex.
sexual intercourse or intimacy. Archaic in general use; survives primarily in the legal phrase 'carnal knowledge'.
ExampleThe old book used the phrase carnal knowledge to describe the couple's relationship.
ExampleThe defendant was charged under a statute that specifically cited carnal knowledge of a minor as a felony offense.
Usagealmost exclusively found in the fixed phrase 'carnal knowledge'.
From Middle English knowleche, knaweleche, cnawlece (“knowledge”), from knowen (“to know, recognise”) + -leche. Related to Middle English knowlechen (“to find out, acknowledge”). For more on the Middle English suffix -leche, compare freelage. Compare also Old English cnāwelǣċ, cnāwelǣċing (“acknowledging, acknowledgement”).
- Verbacknowledge
- Nounknowledge
- Adjectiveknowledgeable