known - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
known Word Meanings
- To be aware of something or have information about it.
- To be widely recognized or familiar.
- Used in phrases like it is known that to indicate something is true or established.
known Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
known Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/nəʊn/
US
/noʊn/
known Word Etymology
Root decomposition: prefix/suffix none; root: know. Historical origin: Old English cnawan 'to know', from Proto-Germanic *kunwan-; cognates Dutch kennen, German kennen; ultimately from Proto-Indo-European root *ǵno- 'to know'. Memory image: a wise knight with a knowledge key opens the dusty library door labeled Knowledge.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Known is the past participle of know and functions as an adjective or passive participle in English. It is used to describe information that people have or to identify things that are widely recognized. People say it is known that something is true when a fact is accepted or supported by evidence, and you can also say someone is known for a skill or achievement. In many phrases, native speakers rely on compact forms like well-known or widely known, and the structure it is known that introduces reported information without quoting it directly. Learners often confuse known with know and with knew, so careful tense and form matter.
Usage Reminders
- • Know is the base verb; known is the past participle/adjective.
- • Use it is known that to present a generally accepted fact.
- • Use well-known for famous people or things.
- • Say someone is known for a skill or achievement.
- • Distinguish know (to have knowledge) from knowledge (the noun).
Common Misconceptions
- Known is a form of be thinking that it is a future verb; it is not.
- It is known that does not mean 'it is said that'.
- Confusing well-known with known as if both mean fame.
- Mistaking 'know' as a passive form instead of 'known' in passive voice.
- Forgetting that 'known' can describe people (well-known) or things (widely known).
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, known is a participle/adjective form tied to 'know' and is often used in passive or descriptive structures (it is known that; well-known). Learners struggle with when to use 'know' vs 'known' and with passive constructions.
Learning Tips
- Practice the difference between know (present) and known (past participle/adjective).
- Use it is known that to present accepted facts.
- Pair 'known for' with a profession or achievement.
- Learn collocations: well-known, widely known, known as.
- Practice the passive form: something is known to be…
- Create your own sentences using both 'know' and 'known'.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'known'?
A.Confused
B.Hidden
C.Understood
D.Forgotten
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'known' used correctly?
A.She is a famous singer in the industry.
B.She is an unknown singer in the industry.
C.She is a common singer in the industry.
D.She is a known singer in the industry.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'known'?
A.Unfamiliar
B.Mysterious
C.Anonymous
D.Recognized
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'known'?
A.Concealed
B.Famous
C.Anonymous
D.Visible
Step 5: Mastery
In what context would you use the word 'known'?
A.Talking about a well-known author
B.Discussing a secret experiment
C.Describing a hidden treasure
D.Referring to an unseen creature
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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