Word Comparison

Know

vs

Understand

/nəʊ/·/ˌɞndəɹˈstand/

Similarity

0%

Quite different — distinct meanings

📖 Definitions

Know

noun

Knowledge; the state of knowing.

Understand

verb

To grasp a concept fully and thoroughly, especially (of words, statements, art, etc.) to be aware of the meaning of and (of people) to be aware of the intent of.

Also: To believe, to think one grasps sufficiently despite potentially incomplete knowledge.

🔄 Synonyms Compared

↔️ Antonyms Compared

Know

Understand

None found.

💡 When to Use Each

Use “know” when…

  • The meaning fits your exact context
  • You want a specific emotional tone
  • Explore more on the know word page →

Use “understand” when…

  • The meaning fits your exact context
  • You want a specific emotional tone
  • Explore more on the understand word page →

Translate “Know” & “Understand” into Another Language

Pick a language to open the translator with the word pre-filled.

🔍 Explore Each Word

Home/Compare Words/Know vs Understand