kennen
Translation
to know (a person, place), to be familiar with
Examples
Er kennt den Weg zum Bahnhof.
He knows the way to the station.
Kennt ihr diesen Film schon?
Do you (plural) already know this film?
Sie kennt sich hier gut aus.
She knows her way around here well.
Grammar Patterns
((j-n/et4)) kennen to know (sb./sth.) I know this city very well.
sich ((in+3)) auskennen to know one's way around (in sth.) He knows a lot about art history.
Similar Words
Synonym: vertraut sein mit (to be familiar with); Distinction: wissen (to know a fact)
Etymology
From Old High German 'kennen', meaning 'to make known'. Cognate with the English word 'ken'.
Memory Tips
Use 'kennen' for people, places, and things you are familiar with. Use 'wissen' for facts and information.