知道
When you're just starting out in Chinese, 知道 (zhīdào) is super useful. It means 'to know' or 'to be aware of' a fact or a piece of information. Think of it like knowing something in your head, rather than knowing how to do something (that's a different verb!).
You can use it for simple statements like 'I know' or 'Do you know?' It's one of those basic verbs that will unlock a lot of early conversations.
When you're learning Chinese, you'll quickly encounter the verb 知道 (zhīdào). This word is super common and means 'to know' or 'to be aware of'. You use it when you know a piece of information, a fact, or if you're aware of a situation. Think of it like knowing something in your head, rather than knowing how to do something or recognizing a person.
For example, if someone asks you, 'Do you know his name?' you would use 知道 to answer. It's a straightforward verb and doesn't change based on who is doing the knowing. Just remember, 知道 is for facts and awareness, not for skills or acquaintance.
You'll often hear 知道 (zhīdào) when someone wants to express knowing a piece of information or a fact. For example, if someone asks you if you know a particular person, you'd use 知道. It's about having knowledge of something.
It's generally used for factual knowledge, like knowing an address, a name, or an event. So, if you 知道 something, it means that information is stored in your brain. You can also use it to ask if someone is aware of something.
You probably already know 知道 (zhīdào). It's one of the most common verbs in Chinese. But there are a few important things to remember.
知道 means "to know a fact" or "to be aware of something." For example, you can say 我知道 (Wǒ zhīdào), meaning "I know" or "I got it."
However, 知道 is not used for knowing a person. For that, you need to use 认识 (rènshi). So you wouldn't say 我知道他 (Wǒ zhīdào tā) to mean "I know him." You'd say 我认识他 (Wǒ rènshi tā).
Another thing to note is that 知道 can be used with a question word to mean "to know how to do something." For instance, 你知道怎么走吗？ (Nǐ zhīdào zěnme zǒu ma?) means "Do you know how to get there?"
When using 知道 (zhīdào), it's important to understand its nuances, especially at a C1 level. While it generally means 'to know' or 'to be aware of,' it specifically refers to knowing facts, information, or having an awareness of a situation. It's not typically used for knowing people, skills, or places in the same way you might use 'know' in English.
For example, you can 知道 a piece of news (你知道这个消息吗? Nǐ zhīdào zhège xiāoxī ma? - Do you know this news?). You can also 知道 a secret (我知道他的秘密。Wǒ zhīdào tā de mìmì. - I know his secret.).
However, you wouldn't typically use 知道 to say you know how to swim (instead, you'd use 会 huì) or that you know a friend (instead, you'd use 认识 rènshi). Mastering this distinction is key to sounding more natural in Chinese.
You're already at a C2 level, so you know that the literal meaning of 知道 (zhīdào) is 'to know' or 'to be aware of'.
However, what distinguishes C2 learners is their nuanced understanding of its usage. You wouldn't use 知道 to mean 'to know a person' – that's 认识 (rènshí).
Also, when you want to express 'knowing how to do something,' you'd opt for 会 (huì).
So, while 知道 is fundamental, true mastery at C2 means knowing precisely when not to use it, and choosing the more appropriate verb for specific contexts.
知道 en 30 secondes
- Use 知道 for knowing facts or information.
- It means 'to know' or 'to be aware of.'
- A common and fundamental verb for A1 learners.
§ Basic Sentence Structure with 知道
The verb 知道 (zhīdào) means 'to know (a fact)' or 'to be aware of'. It's pretty straightforward to use in a sentence. You simply put the subject, then 知道, then what they know.
我知道他叫什么名字。
Translation hint: I know what his name is.
你知道这个消息吗？
Translation hint: Do you know this news?
§ Negating 知道
To say you 'don't know', you simply put 不 (bù) before 知道. Very easy.
我不知道他去哪里了。
Translation hint: I don't know where he went.
他们不知道这件事情。
Translation hint: They don't know about this matter.
§ Asking Questions with 知道
There are a couple of common ways to ask questions using 知道. The simplest is to add 吗 (ma) at the end of a statement.
你知道她几点来吗？
Translation hint: Do you know what time she's coming?
Another common way to ask is using the 'Verb + 不 + Verb' structure, which creates an A-not-A question.
你知道不知道他的电话号码？
Translation hint: Do you know his phone number?
§ 知道 with Question Words
You can also combine 知道 with question words like 谁 (shéi - who), 什么 (shénme - what), 哪里 (nǎlǐ - where), 为什么 (wèishénme - why), and 怎么 (zěnme - how) to form more complex questions. The question word usually comes after 知道.
我知道他什么时候回来。
Translation hint: I know when he will come back.
你知道这个词怎么读吗？
Translation hint: Do you know how to read this word?
- Remember
- In these types of sentences, the entire clause with the question word acts as the object of 知道.
§ Common Phrases with 知道
Here are a few common phrases where 知道 is used:
不知道 (bù zhīdào): Don't know.
我真的不知道。
Translation hint: I really don't know.
让…知道 (ràng... zhīdào): To let someone know.
请你让大家知道这个消息。
Translation hint: Please let everyone know this news.
大家都知道 (dàjiā dōu zhīdào): Everyone knows.
这件事情，大家知道。
Translation hint: Everyone knows about this matter.
Mastering 知道 is a key step in building your basic Chinese communication skills. Keep practicing these sentence structures, and you'll be using it naturally in no time.
§ Knowing Things: Work and School
When you're learning Chinese, you'll hear 知道 (zhīdào) all the time. It simply means 'to know' or 'to be aware of.' This isn't about knowing a skill, like how to swim; it's about knowing facts, information, or situations. Think of it as 'I know that...' or 'Do you know if...'. It's super practical, whether you're in a classroom, talking to colleagues, or just out and about.
- DEFINITION
- to know (a fact); to be aware of
Let's start with common scenarios. At school, your teacher might ask if you understand something. Or you might ask a classmate if they know the answer to a question. In a work setting, you'll use it to confirm information or check if someone is aware of a meeting or a deadline. It's really straightforward.
你知道今天的作业是什么吗？
Nǐ zhīdào jīntiān de zuòyè shì shénme ma?
(Do you know what today's homework is?)
我知道那个会议取消了。
Wǒ zhīdào nàge huìyì qǔxiāo le.
(I know that meeting was canceled.)
§ Awareness in Daily Conversations
Beyond work and school, 知道 (zhīdào) is your go-to for general awareness. Someone tells you something new, and you can simply say 'I know.' Or if you're asking for directions, you might ask 'Do you know where the post office is?' It's about having information.
你知道去火车站怎么走吗？
Nǐ zhīdào qù huǒchēzhàn zěnme zǒu ma?
(Do you know how to get to the train station?)
他知道我的名字。
Tā zhīdào wǒ de míngzì.
(He knows my name.)
§ In the News and Media
You'll also come across 知道 (zhīdào) when reading news or listening to reports. It's often used when referring to public knowledge or general awareness about events.
大家都知道这件事。
Dàjiā dōu zhīdào zhè jiàn shì.
(Everyone knows about this matter.)
他们想让更多人知道这个消息。
Tāmen xiǎng ràng gèng duō rén zhīdào zhège xiāoxī.
(They want more people to know this news.)
In summary, 知道 (zhīdào) is fundamental for expressing knowledge of facts, information, and general awareness across various contexts, from your daily school and work life to understanding news. Keep practicing it, and you'll find it incredibly useful.
§ Don't confuse 知道 (zhīdào) with 认识 (rènshi)
This is probably the most common mistake English speakers make. Both words can be translated as 'to know' in English, but they are used in very different contexts. It's really important to get this right.
- DEFINITION
- 知道 (zhīdào) means to know a fact or to be aware of something.
- DEFINITION
- 认识 (rènshi) means to know a person, or to recognize/be familiar with a place or skill.
Think of it this way:
- Use 知道 when you are talking about information, facts, news, or if you're aware of a situation.
- Use 认识 when you are talking about people, places you've been to, or skills you've learned.
Here are some examples to make it clear:
你知道他叫什么名字吗？
(Nǐ zhīdào tā jiào shénme míngzi ma?)
Do you know what his name is?
Here, you're asking for a piece of information (his name).
我认识他，他是我朋友。
(Wǒ rènshi tā, tā shì wǒ péngyǒu.)
I know him, he is my friend.
Here, you're talking about knowing a person. You wouldn't use 知道 here.
你知道怎么去火车站吗？
(Nǐ zhīdào zěnme qù huǒchēzhàn ma?)
Do you know how to get to the train station?
This is asking for information (the way to the station).
我认识北京。
(Wǒ rènshi Běijīng.)
I'm familiar with Beijing (I've been there/know the city).
You're familiar with the place. If you said 我知道北京, it would mean 'I know Beijing (as a fact)', which sounds a bit strange unless you are saying 'I know Beijing is the capital of China'.
§ Using 知道 (zhīdào) to mean 'to understand'
While 知道 means 'to know (a fact)', sometimes English speakers try to use it when they mean 'to understand'. The correct word for 'to understand' is 懂 (dǒng).
你懂了吗？
(Nǐ dǒng le ma?)
Do you understand?
If you said 你知道了吗？ (Nǐ zhīdào le ma?), it would literally mean 'Did you know (this fact) now?', which is a bit different. While sometimes in casual speech 知道 can be used to acknowledge understanding ('Got it!'), 懂 is much more precise for 'to understand'.
§ Not using 不知道 (bù zhīdào) for 'I don't know'
This one is pretty straightforward. To say 'I don't know', you simply put 不 (bù) before 知道 (zhīdào).
我不知道。
(Wǒ bù zhīdào.)
I don't know.
Don't try to use other negative constructions like 没有知道 (méiyǒu zhīdào) – it doesn't work for 知道.
How Formal Is It?
"我们需要了解情况。(We need to understand the situation.)"
"我知道。(I know.)"
"我晓得啦。(I got it/I know already.)"
"我知道了，妈妈。(I know, Mommy.)"
"你懂吗？(You get it?)"
Le savais-tu ?
The character 道 (dào) is famously central to Taoist philosophy, where 'The Tao' often refers to the fundamental nature of the universe or the 'way' of nature. Its use in 知道 (zhīdào) highlights the historical connection between 'knowing' and 'understanding fundamental principles'.
Guide de prononciation
- confusing with 'rènshi' or 'huì'
Niveau de difficulté
short
short
short
short
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
Expressing knowledge of a fact: Use 知道 followed by the fact.
我知道他喜欢咖啡。 (I know he likes coffee.)
Asking if someone knows a fact: Use 知道 in a question.
你知道她是谁吗？ (Do you know who she is?)
Expressing not knowing a fact: Use 不知道.
我不知道答案。 (I don't know the answer.)
Knowing how to do something: Although 知道 can imply knowing how, it's more common to use 会 (huì) for skills.
我知道怎么去那里。 (I know how to get there.) (Literally: I know the way to get there.)
Using 知道 to be aware of a situation: It can mean 'to be aware' or 'to realize'.
我才知道他生病了。 (I just found out/realized he was sick.)
Exemples par niveau
我知道。
I know.
你不知道吗？
Don't you know?
他知道这个。
He knows this.
我们都知道。
We all know.
你知道她是谁吗？
Do you know who she is?
我不知道那个。
I don't know that.
他们知道很多。
They know a lot.
你知道怎么去吗？
Do you know how to go?
我知道你是学生。
I know you are a student.
Simple declarative sentence.
你知道他喜欢吃什么吗？
Do you know what he likes to eat?
Question with an object clause.
我不知道这个字怎么写。
I don't know how to write this character.
Negative form, expressing lack of knowledge about an action.
你知道去火车站的路吗？
Do you know the way to the train station?
Question about knowing a path/direction.
她知道很多关于中国文化的事。
She knows a lot about Chinese culture.
Expressing knowledge about a topic.
我们都知道明天有考试。
We all know there's a test tomorrow.
Using '都' (dōu) for 'all' or 'both'.
你知道他什么时候回来吗？
Do you know when he will come back?
Question with a time-related object clause.
请让我知道你的决定。
Please let me know your decision.
Using '让' (ràng) to mean 'to let' or 'to allow'.
我知道你是学生。
I know you are a student.
你知道他喜欢吃什么吗？
Do you know what he likes to eat?
我不知道这个电影的名字。
I don't know the name of this movie.
你知道去火车站怎么走吗？
Do you know how to get to the train station?
她知道很多关于中国文化的事情。
She knows a lot about Chinese culture.
我们都知道学汉语不容易。
We all know that learning Chinese is not easy.
你知道明天开会的时间吗？
Do you know the time of tomorrow's meeting?
他不知道我在这里工作。
He doesn't know I work here.
我需要知道这次会议的具体议程，以便提前做好准备。
I need to know the specific agenda of this meeting so I can prepare in advance.
知道 is used to express knowing a specific fact or detail.
关于这次项目的风险评估，我们都知道其重要性。
Regarding the risk assessment of this project, we all know its importance.
在这里，'知道' 表示对某一情况或事实的普遍共识。
他知道自己犯了一个严重的错误，所以一直在寻求弥补的机会。
He knows he made a serious mistake, so he's been looking for opportunities to make amends.
知道 here refers to being aware of one's own actions or situations.
我们都知道，良好的沟通是团队成功的关键。
We all know that good communication is key to team success.
此例中，'知道' 表明一种普遍认知或真理。
你是否知道公司最近发布的新政策会如何影响我们的部门？
Do you know how the company's recently released new policy will affect our department?
疑问句中使用 '知道' 询问具体信息。
虽然他嘴上说不知道，但从他的眼神里我能看出他肯定知道一些内情。
Although he said he didn't know, from his eyes, I could tell he definitely knew some inside information.
“嘴上说不知道” 与 “眼神里能看出他肯定知道” 形成对比，强调真实情况。
我知道你对此事很担心，但请相信我们能找到解决办法。
I know you are very worried about this, but please trust that we can find a solution.
知道用来表达对他人感受或状态的理解和认知。
现在大家都知道人工智能将对我们的生活产生深远影响。
Everyone knows now that artificial intelligence will have a profound impact on our lives.
此句中的 '知道' 指的是普遍接受的知识或事实。
我很高兴知道你过得很好。
I'm very glad to know you're doing well.
你知不知道那个秘密？
Do you know that secret?
他知道这个消息时，非常震惊。
He was very shocked when he heard (knew) the news.
我知道怎么解决这个问题。
I know how to solve this problem.
请让我知道你的决定。
Please let me know your decision.
她假装不知道这件事。
She pretended not to know about this matter.
我们都知道地球是圆的。
We all know that the earth is round.
你最好提前知道这些信息。
You'd better know this information beforehand.
Souvent confondu avec
Use 认识 for people and places you have experience with.
Use 懂 for understanding concepts or meanings.
Use 会 for knowing how to do something (skills).
Modèles grammaticaux
Facile à confondre
Both 知道 and 认识 can mean 'to know,' but they are used in different contexts.
认识 is used for knowing people, places (through experience), or recognizing something/someone. 知道 is for knowing facts, information, or being aware of something.
我认识他。(Wǒ rènshi tā.) - I know him (personally). | 我认识这个地方。(Wǒ rènshi zhège dìfang.) - I know this place (I've been here before).
Both 知道 and 懂 relate to understanding, which can be confusing for learners.
懂 means to understand or comprehend something, often implying a deeper level of grasp. 知道 simply means to know a fact or be aware of it, without necessarily understanding the underlying concept.
我懂了。(Wǒ dǒng le.) - I understand (now). | 你懂我的意思吗？(Nǐ dǒng wǒ de yìsi ma?) - Do you understand what I mean?
会 can also be translated as 'to know how to,' which can overlap with 'to know' in English.
会 means 'to know how to' or 'to be able to' do something, implying a skill or ability. 知道 is about knowing information or facts.
我会说中文。(Wǒ huì shuō Zhōngwén.) - I can speak Chinese (I know how to speak Chinese). | 你会游泳吗？(Nǐ huì yóuyǒng ma?) - Do you know how to swim?
了解 also means 'to understand' or 'to know about,' making it seem similar to 知道.
了解 implies a more thorough or in-depth understanding of a situation, person, or topic. 知道 is a more superficial knowledge of a fact or piece of information.
我了解情况。(Wǒ liǎojiě qíngkuàng.) - I understand the situation (I have a good grasp of it). | 你了解中国文化吗？(Nǐ liǎojiě Zhōngguó wénhuà ma?) - Do you understand Chinese culture (in depth)?
While not directly meaning 'to know,' 'I know' in English can sometimes be expressed with 'I feel/think' in Chinese, leading to confusion.
觉得 means 'to feel' or 'to think/believe' an opinion or a sensation. 知道 is about knowing facts. Sometimes, when expressing an opinion, English speakers might say 'I know that...' but in Chinese, 觉得 would be more appropriate if it's an opinion rather than a fact.
我觉得这个主意很好。(Wǒ juéde zhège zhǔyi hěn hǎo.) - I think this idea is very good. | 你觉得怎么样？(Nǐ juéde zěnmeyàng?) - What do you think?
Structures de phrases
Subj. + 知道 + Obj.
我知道他叫王明。(Wǒ zhīdào tā jiào Wáng Míng.) I know he is called Wang Ming.
Subj. + 不知道 + Obj.
我不知道他的电话号码。(Wǒ bù zhīdào tā de diànhuà hàomǎ.) I don't know his phone number.
Subj. + 知道 + Clause
我知道他喜欢吃苹果。(Wǒ zhīdào tā xǐhuan chī píngguǒ.) I know he likes to eat apples.
Subj. + 不知道 + Clause
我不知道他什么时候来。(Wǒ bù zhīdào tā shénme shíhou lái.) I don't know when he will come.
你知道吗？(Nǐ zhīdào ma?) Do you know?
你知道他去哪儿了吗？(Nǐ zhīdào tā qù nǎr le ma?) Do you know where he went?
Subj. + 知道 + Question word + ...
你知道他住在哪里吗？(Nǐ zhīdào tā zhù zài nǎli ma?) Do you know where he lives?
Subj. + 知道 + Numeral + Classifier + Noun
我知道三个人。(Wǒ zhīdào sān gè rén.) I know three people.
Subj. + 知道 + Noun Phrase
我知道这件事。(Wǒ zhīdào zhè jiàn shì.) I know about this matter.
Famille de mots
Noms
Verbes
Comment l'utiliser
How to use 知道 (zhīdào)
知道 (zhīdào) is a very common verb in Chinese that means "to know" or "to be aware of." It's generally used when you know a fact, a piece of information, or are familiar with something.
- To know a fact or information:
- 我知道他的名字。 (Wǒ zhīdào tā de míngzi.) - I know his name.
- 你知道这是什么吗？ (Nǐ zhīdào zhè shì shénme ma?) - Do you know what this is?
- To know about something/be aware of something:
- 我知道这件事。 (Wǒ zhīdào zhè jiàn shì.) - I know about this matter.
- 他知道怎么做饭。 (Tā zhīdào zěnme zuò fàn.) - He knows how to cook.
Structure: Subject + 知道 + Object
Common Mistakes with 知道 (zhīdào)
A common mistake for English speakers is confusing 知道 (zhīdào) with 认识 (rènshi). While both can be translated as "to know," they are used in different contexts.
- 知道 (zhīdào): To know a fact, information, or be aware of something. It's about knowing information.
- 认识 (rènshi): To know a person (be acquainted with), to recognize, or to be familiar with a place or skill. It's about knowing people, places, or skills.
Incorrect Usage:
❌ 我知道他。 (Wǒ zhīdào tā.)
Why it's wrong: This implies you know some information about him, but not that you know him personally. You don't "know" a person with 知道 in this context.
Correct Usage:
✅ 我认识他。 (Wǒ rènshi tā.) - I know him (personally).
✅ 我知道他有一个妹妹。 (Wǒ zhīdào tā yǒu yī ge mèimei.) - I know he has a younger sister (a fact).
Astuces
Basic Meaning of 知道
知道 (zhī dào) means to know or to be aware of. It's used for knowing facts, information, or being aware of a situation. Think of it as knowing *that* something is true.
Asking 'Do you know?'
To ask 'Do you know?' you can say '你知道吗？' (Nǐ zhīdào ma?). The '吗' (ma) particle turns a statement into a yes/no question. For example, '你知道他叫什么吗？' (Nǐ zhīdào tā jiào shénme ma?) - Do you know what his name is?
Negating 知道
To say 'I don't know,' you use '不' (bù) before 知道: '我不知道' (Wǒ bù zhīdào). This is a very common and essential phrase. For example, '我不知道路怎么走。' (Wǒ bù zhīdào lù zěnme zǒu.) - I don't know how to get there.
Knowing a Person vs. Knowing Facts
Be careful! While 知道 can sometimes imply knowing someone, it's more about knowing *about* them. For knowing a person personally, use '认识' (rènshi). For example, '我认识他' (Wǒ rènshi tā) - I know him (personally). '我知道他' (Wǒ zhīdào tā) - I know of him / I know about him.
Knowing How to Do Something
For knowing how to do a skill, like swimming or driving, you usually use '会' (huì), not 知道. For example, '我会游泳' (Wǒ huì yóuyǒng) - I can swim / I know how to swim. You wouldn't say '我知道游泳'.
Knowing a Place
If you're familiar with a place, use '知道'. For example, '我知道那家餐馆。' (Wǒ zhīdào nà jiā cānguǎn.) - I know that restaurant (I know where it is/what it is).
Knowing News or Information
知道 is perfect for knowing news or information. For example, '你知道这个消息吗？' (Nǐ zhīdào zhège xiāoxī ma?) - Do you know this news?
Using 知道 in a Command
You might hear '你知道了' (Nǐ zhīdào le) which can mean 'You got it' or 'You understand now' in a more informal, slightly demanding way, or just stating a realization.
Difference with '明白' (míngbái)
While both relate to understanding, '知道' is about possessing a fact, '明白' is about comprehending. You can know a fact without fully understanding its implications. For example, '我知道你说什么，但是我不明白。' (Wǒ zhīdào nǐ shuō shénme, dànshì wǒ bù míngbái.) - I know what you're saying, but I don't understand (the meaning/implication).
Common Phrase: '我知道了'
'我知道了' (Wǒ zhīdào le) is a very common and natural way to say 'I know now' or 'I understand' (in the sense of having received and processed the information). It's often used as a response to new information or instructions.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Imagine you are 'zhi'-pping up a 'dao'-sized bag of facts. You 'know' what's inside!
Association visuelle
Picture a bright lightbulb illuminating a scroll with facts written on it. The lightbulb 'knows' the information on the scroll.
Word Web
Défi
Think of 3 things you know and say them in Chinese using 知道. For example: 我知道今天星期三 (Wǒ zhīdào jīntiān xīngqīsān - I know today is Wednesday).
Origine du mot
Formed from 知 (zhī, 'to know') and 道 (dào, 'way; path').
Sens originel : The combination originally meant 'to know the way' or 'to understand the principle'. Over time, it evolved to its current general meaning of 'to know' or 'to be aware of'.
Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic.Contexte culturel
When someone asks you a question in Chinese, a simple 知道 (zhīdào) is a direct way to say 'I know'. However, if you want to express deep understanding or familiarity with a topic, you might use other verbs like 了解 (liǎojiě) or 懂 (dǒng).
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsThat's a common question! Both 知道 (zhī dào) and 认识 (rèn shi) mean 'to know,' but they are used in different contexts. 知道 means to know a fact, information, or to be aware of something. Think of it as 'knowing information.' For example, 你知道她叫什么名字吗? (Nǐ zhīdào tā jiào shénme míngzi ma?) - Do you know her name? 认识, on the other hand, means to know a person, place, or to recognize something. Think of it as 'knowing through acquaintance or experience.' For example, 我认识她 (Wǒ rènshi tā) - I know her (as in, I'm acquainted with her). So, if you're talking about a piece of information, use 知道. If you're talking about a person or having experience with a place, use 认识.
No, you generally can't use 知道 to say you know a person in the sense of being acquainted with them. For people, you'd use 认识 (rèn shi). For example, if you want to say 'I know John,' you would say 我认识约翰 (Wǒ rènshi Yuēhàn), not 我知道约翰 (Wǒ zhīdào Yuēhàn). Using 知道 for a person would imply you know a fact about John, like 'I know John is a doctor,' not that you know him personally. The main takeaway is that 知道 is for facts and information, and 认识 is for people and places.
Making a question with 知道 is quite straightforward! You can add 吗 (ma) at the end of a statement, or use an A-not-A question structure. For example, to ask 'Do you know?' you can say: 你知道吗? (Nǐ zhīdào ma?) - Do you know? Or, using the A-not-A structure, 你知不知道? (Nǐ zhī bù zhīdào?) - Do you know or not know? Both are perfectly valid ways to ask a question with 知道.
知道 is a very common and neutral word. It's used in both formal and informal settings. You'll hear it in everyday conversations, in news reports, and even in more formal presentations. There's no need to worry about it being too formal or too informal; it's simply the standard way to say 'to know (a fact)' in Chinese. So, feel free to use it widely!
That's a good question because they both relate to knowing! While 知道 (zhī dào) means 'to know a fact' or 'to be aware of,' 懂得 (dǒng de) means 'to understand' or 'to comprehend.' Think of it this way: you can 知道 a rule (you know the fact of it), but you might not 懂得 why the rule exists (you don't fully understand it). For example, 我知道这个词 (Wǒ zhīdào zhège cí) - I know this word (I've encountered it). But, 我懂得这个概念 (Wǒ dǒngde zhège gàiniàn) - I understand this concept (I grasp its meaning). 懂得 implies a deeper level of comprehension than just knowing a piece of information.
To say 'I don't know' with 知道, you simply put 不 (bù) before 知道. So, it becomes 我不知道 (Wǒ bù zhīdào). This is a very common and useful phrase. For example, 如果你问我， '她几岁？' 我会说 '我不知道。' (Rúguǒ nǐ wèn wǒ, 'Tā jǐ suì?' Wǒ huì shuō 'Wǒ bù zhīdào.') - If you ask me, 'How old is she?' I will say 'I don't know.'
No, generally 知道 is not used to express 'to know how to do something.' For that, you would use 会 (huì). 会 means 'to be able to' or 'to know how to.' For example, if you want to say 'I know how to swim,' you would say 我会游泳 (Wǒ huì yóuyǒng), not 我知道游泳 (Wǒ zhīdào yóuyǒng). 知道 is strictly for knowing facts or information, not for skills or abilities.
Absolutely! One very common and useful phrase is 谁知道 (shuí zhīdào). It means 'who knows?' or 'no one knows.' It's often used when you're unsure about something or when you're expressing a bit of helplessness. For example, 谁知道明天会发生什么？ (Shuí zhīdào míngtiān huì fāshēng shénme?) - Who knows what will happen tomorrow? It's a handy phrase to have in your vocabulary.
That's a great distinction to make! 知道 (zhī dào) means 'to know (a fact)' because you have direct knowledge or information. 听说 (tīng shuō) means 'to hear (it said)' or 'to be told,' implying you heard it from someone else, or it's secondhand information. So, if you know something directly, use 知道. If you've just heard it, use 听说. For example, 我知道他是一个好学生 (Wǒ zhīdào tā shì yīgè hǎo xuéshēng) - I know he is a good student (I have direct knowledge). But, 我听说他是一个好学生 (Wǒ tīngshuō tā shì yīgè hǎo xuéshēng) - I heard he is a good student (someone told me).
Not really in the sense of being familiar with it through personal experience or having visited it. While you can 知道 the *name* of a place or *facts about* a place, if you want to say you are familiar with a place because you've been there or know it well, you would usually use phrases like 熟悉 (shúxī) meaning 'to be familiar with,' or just describe that you've been there many times. For example, 我知道北京 (Wǒ zhīdào Běijīng) just means 'I know of Beijing' (I know it exists). But if you mean 'I am familiar with Beijing,' you might say 我对北京很熟悉 (Wǒ duì Běijīng hěn shúxī) or 我去过很多次北京 (Wǒ qùguò hěnduō cì Běijīng) - I have been to Beijing many times.
Teste-toi 72 questions
Which of these means 'to know (a fact)'?
知道 (zhīdào) means 'to know' or 'to be aware of'. 是 (shì) means 'to be', 有 (yǒu) means 'to have', and 吃 (chī) means 'to eat'.
How do you say 'I know' in Chinese?
我知道 (wǒ zhīdào) translates to 'I know'.
If someone tells you a new piece of information and you understand it, you would say:
我知道了 (wǒ zhīdào le) means 'I got it' or 'I know now', indicating awareness of new information. 我不知道 (wǒ bù zhīdào) means 'I don't know'.
You can use 知道 (zhīdào) to say 'I know how to swim'.
知道 (zhīdào) is for knowing facts or being aware of something. For knowing how to do something (a skill), you should use 会 (huì).
我知道 (wǒ zhīdào) means 'I know'.
我知道 (wǒ zhīdào) is the correct way to say 'I know' in Chinese.
If you want to say 'I don't know', you would say 不知道 (bù zhīdào).
Adding 不 (bù) before 知道 (zhīdào) correctly forms the negative, meaning 'I don't know'.
Someone states they are aware.
Someone asks if you know.
Someone states they are not aware.
Read this aloud:
我知道。
Focus: zhī dào
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
你知道吗？
Focus: nǐ zhī dào ma
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
我不知道。
Focus: wǒ bù zhī dào
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a short sentence saying you know this is a good book.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我知道这是一本好书。 (Wǒ zhīdào zhè shì yī běn hǎo shū.)
Write a sentence asking 'Do you know his name?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你知道他的名字吗？ (Nǐ zhīdào tā de míngzi ma?)
Write a sentence saying 'I don't know that person.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我不知道那个人。 (Wǒ bù zhīdào nàgè rén.)
What does B mean by '我不知道'?
Read this passage:
A: 你知道他叫什么名字吗？ (Nǐ zhīdào tā jiào shénme míngzi ma?) Do you know what his name is? B: 我不知道。 (Wǒ bù zhīdào.) I don't know.
What does B mean by '我不知道'?
B is directly answering A's question about the person's name, indicating they do not know it.
B is directly answering A's question about the person's name, indicating they do not know it.
What does the student know?
Read this passage:
老师：你知道这个汉字怎么写吗？ (Lǎoshī: Nǐ zhīdào zhège hànzì zěnme xiě ma?) Teacher: Do you know how to write this Chinese character? 学生：我知道。 (Xuésheng: Wǒ zhīdào.) Student: I know.
What does the student know?
The student is directly answering the teacher's question about writing the character.
The student is directly answering the teacher's question about writing the character.
What information does Xiao Hong have?
Read this passage:
小明：你知道北京在哪里吗？ (Xiǎo Míng: Nǐ zhīdào Běijīng zài nǎlǐ ma?) Xiao Ming: Do you know where Beijing is? 小红：我知道，北京在中国。 (Xiǎo Hóng: Wǒ zhīdào, Běijīng zài Zhōngguó.) Xiao Hong: I know, Beijing is in China.
What information does Xiao Hong have?
Xiao Hong directly answers Xiao Ming's question about Beijing's location by stating it's in China.
Xiao Hong directly answers Xiao Ming's question about Beijing's location by stating it's in China.
Write a sentence asking if someone knows where the nearest subway station is. Make sure to use 知道.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你知道最近的地铁站在哪里吗？ (Do you know where the nearest subway station is?)
Write a sentence stating that you know his phone number. Use 知道.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我知道他的电话号码。(I know his phone number.)
Imagine you are talking to a new friend. Write a sentence asking if they know about a specific Chinese festival (e.g., Spring Festival).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你知道春节吗？ (Do you know about the Spring Festival?)
小王为什么经常被朋友问问题？
Read this passage:
小王喜欢看书。他知道很多历史故事。他的朋友经常问他问题，因为小王总是知道答案。
小王为什么经常被朋友问问题？
The passage states that his friends often ask him questions because he always knows the answers (因为小王总是知道答案).
The passage states that his friends often ask him questions because he always knows the answers (因为小王总是知道答案).
玛丽现在需要知道什么？
Read this passage:
玛丽想去北京旅游，但是她不知道怎么去长城。她需要问一个中国人。
玛丽现在需要知道什么？
The passage says she doesn't know how to go to the Great Wall (她不知道怎么去长城), so she needs to know the way.
The passage says she doesn't know how to go to the Great Wall (她不知道怎么去长城), so she needs to know the way.
为什么小李没有举手？
Read this passage:
老师问学生们：“你们知道这个词的意思吗？” 大部分学生都举手了，只有小李没有举手，因为他不知道。
为什么小李没有举手？
The passage clearly states '只有小李没有举手，因为他不知道' (only Xiao Li didn't raise his hand, because he didn't know).
The passage clearly states '只有小李没有举手，因为他不知道' (only Xiao Li didn't raise his hand, because he didn't know).
This question asks if you know his name. The word order is 'You know his name嗎?'.
This sentence means 'I don't know this place.' The negative '不' goes before '知道'.
This sentence means 'She knows how to cook.' The structure '知道 怎么' means 'know how to'.
你知道他___学中文多久了吗？(Do you know how long he has been studying Chinese?)
“已经” (yǐjīng) means 'already', fitting the context of knowing how long someone has been doing something.
我知道你___喜欢喝咖啡，所以给你买了一杯。(I know you really like coffee, so I bought you a cup.)
“很” (hěn) means 'very', used here to emphasize 'like'.
你知道这个消息是___传出来的吗？(Do you know where this news came from?)
“从哪里” (cóng nǎlǐ) means 'from where', asking about the source of the news.
我们都___这件事情的重要性。(We all know the importance of this matter.)
“知道” (zhīdào) means 'to know (a fact)', which is appropriate for knowing the importance of something.
你知道他___去中国旅游了吗？(Do you know if he has gone to China for travel?)
“有没有” (yǒu méi yǒu) means 'have... or not', used to ask if something has happened.
如果你___了答案，请告诉我。(If you know the answer, please tell me.)
“知道” (zhīdào) means 'to know (a fact)', fitting the context of knowing an answer.
Do you know why he resigned?
I know you like spicy food.
Do you know how to get to the train station?
Read this aloud:
我知道这个消息很久了。
Focus: zhī dào zhè ge xiāo xī hěn jiǔ le
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
你知道她最近怎么样吗？
Focus: zhī dào tā zuì jìn zěn me yàng ma
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
我不知道这件事。
Focus: wǒ bù zhī dào zhè jiàn shì
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
This question asks if you know his name. The structure is 'Subject + 知道 + Object + 吗?'.
This sentence expresses not knowing how to get somewhere. The structure is 'Subject + 不知道 + Verb + Object'.
This sentence indicates that she knows this secret. The structure is 'Subject + 知道 + Object'.
Imagine you are explaining a complex cultural tradition from your country to a Chinese friend. Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) about it, assuming they know some basic Chinese but might not be familiar with the specifics of your culture. Use '知道' at least once in your explanation.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我们国家的春节有很多特别的习俗。你可能知道中国人过年的时候会吃饺子，但你知道我们也会在大年初一去拜访亲戚朋友，祝他们新年快乐吗？这是一个很重要的传统，表达我们对彼此的祝福和尊重。
You are writing an email to a new colleague from China, offering to help them settle in. Mention something you know about their home city/country to show you're thoughtful, and offer assistance with anything they might not '知道' yet. Write 3-4 sentences.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你好！欢迎来到我们公司。我知道上海是一个非常现代化的城市，有很多高楼大厦。如果你对这里的生活或工作有什么不了解的地方，或者不知道去哪里找好吃的，尽管问我。我很乐意帮助你尽快适应这里。
Describe a time when you learned something new or realized something important that changed your perspective. How did this new knowledge make you '知道' more about yourself or the world? Write 3-4 sentences.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
有一次我去了一个偏远的山区支教，那里的孩子虽然物质条件很差，但他们对知识的渴望让我很感动。通过这次经历，我才知道教育的力量有多大，也让我更清楚地知道自己应该如何更好地帮助别人。这次经历彻底改变了我对幸福的看法。
根据短文，小李以前对秦始皇的了解是：
Read this passage:
小李最近一直在研究中国古代历史。他发现秦始皇统一中国后，做了很多改革，比如统一文字和度量衡。他以前只知道秦始皇修建了长城，但现在才知道秦朝对中国社会的影响远不止这些。他还了解到秦朝虽然短暂，但对后世产生了深远的影响。
根据短文，小李以前对秦始皇的了解是：
短文中提到“他以前只知道秦始皇修建了长城”，因此这是他以前的了解。
短文中提到“他以前只知道秦始皇修建了长城”，因此这是他以前的了解。
小王这次旅行才知道北京有什么？
Read this passage:
为了准备这次旅行，小王查阅了很多资料。他早就知道北京有故宫和长城，但这次他才知道北京还有很多独特的胡同文化，以及许多保存完好的古老四合院。他决定这次旅行一定要去体验一下老北京的胡同生活。
小王这次旅行才知道北京有什么？
短文中提到“但这次他才知道北京还有很多独特的胡同文化，以及许多保存完好的古老四合院”，这表示是他这次新了解到的。
短文中提到“但这次他才知道北京还有很多独特的胡同文化，以及许多保存完好的古老四合院”，这表示是他这次新了解到的。
文章指出，仅仅知道健康饮食和运动的理论是不足够的，还需要什么？
Read this passage:
许多人知道健康饮食和适量运动对身体有益，但很少有人真正知道如何将这些习惯融入到日常生活中。仅仅知道理论是不够的，关键在于实践。只有通过亲身体验，才能真正体会到健康生活带来的好处，并长期坚持下去。
文章指出，仅仅知道健康饮食和运动的理论是不足够的，还需要什么？
文章中明确指出“仅仅知道理论是不够的，关键在于实践。只有通过亲身体验，才能真正体会到健康生活带来的好处”，所以需要实践并融入生活。
文章中明确指出“仅仅知道理论是不够的，关键在于实践。只有通过亲身体验，才能真正体会到健康生活带来的好处”，所以需要实践并融入生活。
她看起来很沮丧，你_____发生了什么事吗？
这里需要一个动词来表示“知道”某个情况或事实。
关于这次项目的风险，我们都需要_____得一清二楚。
“知道得一清二楚”表示对某事了解得很透彻。
你_____他明天会不会来参加会议？
这里询问的是是否了解某个事实（他是否会来参加会议）。
如果你“知道”某个地方，说明你曾去过那个地方，所以你可以用“我知道那个地方”来表达你对那个地方很熟悉。
“知道”某个地方通常指知道它的存在或名称，不一定意味着去过或熟悉。要表达熟悉，会用“熟悉”或“了解”。
“你知道这条新闻吗？”这个句子是询问对方是否听过或了解这条新闻的内容。
“知道”在此处表示是否知晓一个信息或事实。
当我们说“你知道怎么做饭吗？”，这里的“知道”可以和“会”互换，表示是否掌握做饭的技能。
在这种语境下，“知道怎么做饭”和“会做饭”都是表达掌握某项技能的意思。
她对艺术史的深入研究，让她在学术界享有盛誉，几乎没有人不___她对文艺复兴时期作品的独到见解。
知晓 (zhī xiǎo) emphasizes being fully aware of or knowing something clearly, which fits the context of widely recognized insights.
尽管公司内部严格保密，但有关新产品发布的消息还是不胫而走，很多人都已___内情。
洞悉 (dòng xī) means to see clearly into, to discern, often implying understanding the deeper facts or secrets, which suits 'internal secrets'.
经过多年的努力，他终于___了这座城市的文化脉络，写出了这部深刻的著作。
参透 (cān tòu) implies a deep and thorough understanding after much thought or study, which aligns with understanding a city's 'cultural脉络' (cultural veins/essence).
面对复杂的国际局势，决策者们需要___各种潜在风险，才能做出明智的判断。
预知 (yù zhī) means to know beforehand, implying a certain foresight into future events or risks.
他凭借其敏锐的直觉，总能___对手下一步的行动，从而在谈判中占据上风。
揣摩 (chuǎi mó) means to ponder, to try to figure out, especially someone's intentions or thoughts, fitting the context of understanding an opponent's next move.
要真正___一个国家的历史，就不能只停留在表面的事件，而要深入挖掘其背后的深层原因。
透彻 (tòu chè) means thorough and comprehensive, implying a deep understanding that goes beyond the surface, which is necessary for understanding history.
她对那个复杂理论的每个细节都了如指掌，真是让人惊叹。她不仅___其表象，更深知其内在的逻辑和发展脉络。
在这个C2级别的语境中，'知道'强调的是对事物表象或事实的认知，与'了如指掌'形成对比，后者表示更深层次的理解和掌握。选项中的“了解”、“明白”和“掌握”都比单纯的“知道”包含了更深度的理解或技能。
面对瞬息万变的国际局势，他只___表面信息，未能洞察到背后更深层次的动因，结果做出了错误的判断。
在C2语境下，'知道'在这里表示仅限于对表层信息的了解，未能深入，与'洞察'形成对比，符合句意。'懂得'、'认识'和'体会'都暗示了更深层次的理解或经验。
尽管他反复研究了这份报告，但他仍然只是___数据本身，未能将其与宏观经济趋势有效地联系起来。
在C2语境中，'知道'在此表示对数据事实的认知，但缺乏对其深层含义或与其他因素关联的理解，与'有效地联系起来'形成反衬。'领会'、'看懂'和'掌握'都意味着更深入的理解或能力。
仅仅知道某个理论的名称，并不意味着你已经完全理解了它的核心精髓和实践意义。
在C2级别，'知道'常被用来指代对表面事实的认知，与深层次的理解（核心精髓、实践意义）形成对比。此陈述正确地指出了这一区别。
对于一个复杂的哲学命题，只要你知道它的字面意思，就足以对其进行批判性分析。
在C2语境中，'知道'字面意思远不足以进行批判性分析。批判性分析需要更深层次的理解、洞察和知识储备。此陈述错误。
他虽然知道这个项目的存在，但对它的具体进展和面临的挑战一无所知。
在C2语境中，这句话准确地体现了'知道'的局限性，即仅限于了解某个事实的存在，但对细节和深层情况可能一无所知。此陈述正确。
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Summary
知道 (zhī dào) is a basic verb meaning 'to know a fact' or 'to be aware of something.'
- Use 知道 for knowing facts or information.
- It means 'to know' or 'to be aware of.'
- A common and fundamental verb for A1 learners.
Basic Meaning of 知道
知道 (zhī dào) means to know or to be aware of. It's used for knowing facts, information, or being aware of a situation. Think of it as knowing *that* something is true.
Asking 'Do you know?'
To ask 'Do you know?' you can say '你知道吗？' (Nǐ zhīdào ma?). The '吗' (ma) particle turns a statement into a yes/no question. For example, '你知道他叫什么吗？' (Nǐ zhīdào tā jiào shénme ma?) - Do you know what his name is?
Negating 知道
To say 'I don't know,' you use '不' (bù) before 知道: '我不知道' (Wǒ bù zhīdào). This is a very common and essential phrase. For example, '我不知道路怎么走。' (Wǒ bù zhīdào lù zěnme zǒu.) - I don't know how to get there.
Knowing a Person vs. Knowing Facts
Be careful! While 知道 can sometimes imply knowing someone, it's more about knowing *about* them. For knowing a person personally, use '认识' (rènshi). For example, '我认识他' (Wǒ rènshi tā) - I know him (personally). '我知道他' (Wǒ zhīdào tā) - I know of him / I know about him.
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Plus de mots sur general
一下儿
A1a bit, a moment
点儿
A1a little bit
有点儿
A1a little, somewhat (negative connotation)
一下
A2A bit; a moment (used after a verb).
一点儿
A1a little, a bit
一会儿
A1a moment, a while
一部分
B1part; portion; minority
异样
B1different; unusual; strange
关于
A1about, concerning
快要
A2to be about to (happen)
