conocer (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

"Conocer" is a verb in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

/konoˈθeɾ/ (in Spain) or /konoˈseɾ/ (in Latin America)

Translation Options into English

• To know
• To be acquainted with
• To meet (for the first time)

Meaning and Usage

"Conocer" means to possess knowledge or consciousness about someone or something. It refers specifically to familiarity gained through experience or acquaintance, as opposed to knowing facts or information (which is often expressed by the verb "saber").

In general usage, "conocer" indicates a deeper connection with the subject, such as knowing a person well or being acquainted with a place.

Frequency of Use

"Conocer" is a commonly used verb in both oral and written Spanish, though it is more prevalent in conversational contexts where personal relationships and experiences are discussed.

Example Sentences

1. Conocer a María fue una experiencia maravillosa.
   Meeting María was a wonderful experience.

2. No creo que conozca este libro.
   I don't think I know this book.

3. Es importante conocer nuevas culturas cuando viajas.
   It is important to know new cultures when you travel.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Conocer" is frequently used in a variety of idiomatic expressions in Spanish. Below are a few examples:

1. Conocer de vista.
   To know by sight.

2. Ejemplo: No hablamos, pero conozco de vista a tu hermano.
   We didn't talk, but I know your brother by sight.

3. Conocer la casa como la palma de la mano.
   To know the place like the back of your hand.

4. Ejemplo: Conozco la ciudad como la palma de la mano.
   I know the city like the back of my hand.

5. Conocer a alguien muy bien.
   To know someone very well.

6. Ejemplo: Conozco a Juan muy bien; somos amigos desde hace años.
   I know Juan very well; we have been friends for years.

7. Conocer el terreno.
   To know the terrain.

8. Ejemplo: Antes de empezar la construcción, necesitamos conocer el terreno.
   Before starting the construction, we need to know the terrain.

9. Conocer por experiencia.
   To know by experience.

10. Ejemplo: Conozco por experiencia que el trabajo en equipo es fundamental.
    I know by experience that teamwork is essential.

Etymology

The verb "conocer" comes from the Latin verb "cognoscere," which means "to get to know" or "to recognize," formed from the prefix "co-" (together) and "gnoscere" (to know).

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Saber (to know, especially facts or information)
• Reconocer (to recognize)

Antonyms

• Ignorar (to ignore)
• Desconocer (to be unaware of)

This comprehensive overview of "conocer" highlights its meanings, uses, idiomatic expressions, etymological background, and related words in both general and legal contexts.