informal 3K

Know a thing or two

🇬🇧 UK //nəʊ ə θɪŋ ɔː tuː// 🇺🇸 US //noʊ ə θɪŋ ɔr tu//

Meaning of Know a thing or two

To have a moderate amount of knowledge or experience about a subject.

In simple words: To have some knowledge or experience about something.

Know a thing or two in a sentence

• She knows a thing or two about cooking Italian dishes.
• He claims to know a thing or two about investments.
• After traveling for years, she knows a thing or two about different cultures.
• I might not be an expert, but I know a thing or two about photography.
• He knows a thing or two when it comes to fixing cars.
• They say she knows a thing or two about gardening; her plants thrive.

How to use Know a thing or two

This idiom is best used in casual conversations. Avoid in formal writing or discussions. It's suitable for expressing modest knowledge.

Grammar pattern

standalone expression

Memory hint

Think of someone who's learned a bit from various experiences, knowing 'a thing or two' about life.

Related words

Collocations with Know a thing or two

• know a thing or two about life
• know a thing or two about science
• know a thing or two about art

Synonyms for Know a thing or two

• have some knowledge
• know a little
• be somewhat informed
• be aware
• understand

Common mistakes with Know a thing or two

• Used in formal contexts where it may sound too casual.
• Confused with similar idioms but lacks clarity.
• Overused in situations where specific knowledge should be highlighted.

Frequently asked questions about Know a thing or two

What does Know a thing or two mean?

To have some knowledge or experience about something.

What is the definition of Know a thing or two?

To have a moderate amount of knowledge or experience about a subject.

How do you use Know a thing or two in a sentence?

She knows a thing or two about cooking Italian dishes.

Can you give another example of Know a thing or two?

He claims to know a thing or two about investments.

What are synonyms for Know a thing or two?

Common alternatives include have some knowledge, know a little, be somewhat informed, be aware, understand.

What words go with Know a thing or two?

It commonly pairs with know a thing or two about life, know a thing or two about science, know a thing or two about art.

What are common mistakes when using Know a thing or two?

Used in formal contexts where it may sound too casual. Confused with similar idioms but lacks clarity. Overused in situations where specific knowledge should be highlighted.

How do you pronounce Know a thing or two?

US: //noʊ ə θɪŋ ɔr tu//, UK: //nəʊ ə θɪŋ ɔː tuː//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Know a thing or two formal or informal?

"Know a thing or two" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Know a thing or two?

This idiom is best used in casual conversations. Avoid in formal writing or discussions. It's suitable for expressing modest knowledge.