Meaning
With full understanding of the facts, implications, and potential consequences.
Cultural Background
In French law, 'le consentement éclairé' (informed consent) is a fundamental right, and this phrase is its linguistic backbone. Usage is identical to France, but often appears in consumer protection debates regarding 'hidden defects' (vices cachés). Common in administrative and European Union jargon in Brussels. Used frequently in the context of direct democracy and referendums.
Use 'toute' for extra impact
Adding 'toute' (en toute connaissance de cause) makes you sound very persuasive and certain.
Don't use for small things
Using this for choosing a pizza flavor will make you sound like a robot or a lawyer.
Meaning
With full understanding of the facts, implications, and potential consequences.
Use 'toute' for extra impact
Adding 'toute' (en toute connaissance de cause) makes you sound very persuasive and certain.
Don't use for small things
Using this for choosing a pizza flavor will make you sound like a robot or a lawyer.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct fixed expression.
Il a accepté ce poste difficile en ________ de cause.
The fixed expression is 'en connaissance de cause'.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly in a formal context?
A) J'ai mangé une pomme en connaissance de cause. B) Le témoin a parlé en connaissance de cause.
Eating an apple is too trivial for this formal expression.
Match the register to the sentence.
1. Formal, 2. Informal
The target phrase is the formal version.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesIl a accepté ce poste difficile en ________ de cause.
The fixed expression is 'en connaissance de cause'.
A) J'ai mangé une pomme en connaissance de cause. B) Le témoin a parlé en connaissance de cause.
Eating an apple is too trivial for this formal expression.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
The target phrase is the formal version.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsIt is always 'en'. 'Avec connaissance de cause' is a common mistake for English speakers.
Yes, it's perfect for professional emails to show you've understood the implications of a request.
Related Phrases
en toute connaissance de cause
specialized formWith *full* knowledge of the facts.
sciemment
synonymKnowingly.
avoir les cartes en main
similarTo have all the information/power.
à l'aveuglette
contrastBlindly.
