American English

How to pronounce knew

verbA1Very common word

NOO

/nu/

One syllable.

Form of know

Knew is the past form of know and is used with all subjects.

Had information about a fact, an answer, or a situation.

Meanings & examples

past form

Had information about a fact, an answer, or a situation.

I knew the answer to the question.

We knew it was going to rain.

past form

Was familiar with a person, place, or thing because of previous experience.

I knew Carlos from work.

She knew the neighborhood well.

past form

Had learned how to do something and was able to do it.

She knew how to fix a flat tire.

I knew how to use the app.

past form

Understood a feeling or situation because of personal experience.

I knew what it was like to start a new job.

He knew how difficult the decision was.

based on the information I have

As far as I know, the office is still open.

understand the point I am making

You need to set boundaries, if you know what I mean.

having special or current information; informal

Ask Maya; she's in the know.

The past form is knew, and the form used after have is known: I knew; I have known.