Let’s find out what is the difference between saber vs conocer in Spanish. Study basic grammar rules with online lessons. Read about how and when to use some important words and phrases.
Saber Vs Conocer | What do Saber and conocer mean in Spanish?
Note: In Spanish, there are two verbs that express the idea “to know.” These two verbs are “saber” and “conocer.” The verb you choose depends upon the context in which it is used. These verbs are not interchangeable.
What is conocer?
First, the word to know comes from the Latin -cognoscere-, which is formed by the prefix -con- which means everything and the verb -gnoscere- which expresses to know. Therefore, knowledge refers to the action of obtaining information about a certain object or situation. In addition, it implies research to obtain the information and process it for its fixation and that it becomes knowledge.
– It applies to the person when they have had interpersonal relationships with another for a more or less prolonged period (Lucy knows Juana very well).
– It is applied to the skill acquired by studying a particular topic or by practicing an activity (Carlos knows everything about soccer).
To summarize, knowing is the activity by which the individual appropriates the world around him, that is, it is the action of intellectual capture of the environment or the individual himself.
The act of knowing is an active and complex process in which biological, cerebral, linguistic, cultural, social, and historical aspects intervene. In addition, it represents a fundamental need for the human being, since, based on knowledge, the person can orient themselves, decide, act and interact with their peers.
What is saber?
The word to know comes from the Latin –sapere-, which refers to having intelligence. In this sense, knowledge is the set of skills learned from various sources such as:
– Knowing by intuition: it comes when the individual comes into contact with an object or situation and perceives certain aspects of it.
Note: To express knowledge or ignorance of a fact or information about something, use “saber”
e.g.
Ella sabe donde está la cafetería – She knows where coffee shop is.
Note: To say that one is or is not acquainted with a person, a place, or an object, use “conocer”
e.g.
Tú no conoces a mi tío. – You don’t know (am not acquainted with) my uncle
Nosotros conocemos España – Nosotros know (are acquainted with) Spain.
Note: To express knowledge or ignorance of a subject or learning discipline, use “saber” or “conocer”, depending upon the context.
e.g.
Ella no sabe nada de la noticia – She doesn’t know anything about the news
Ella conoce el sistema. – She is familiar with the system
Note: To express knowledge or ignorance of a skill, or how to do something, use “saber + infinitive”.
e.g.
Él sabe cocinar – He knows how to cook.
The situation with regards to the correct use of “saber” and “conocer” can be summarized as follows:
to know a fact, to know something thoroughly, to know how to do something
to be acquainted with a person, place, or thing
