Hallo zusammen! 👋
Today, we are going to answer a new question: What’s the difference between wissen and kennen in German?
This blog will clarify when to use each verb correctly. 📚📝
Explanation:
Using wissen for Facts:
Many German learners get confused between these two verbs because they both translate to the English verb to know.
For example:
- I know that he is coming.
- I know him.
In the first sentence, I know that he is coming, I am sure he is coming, so it’s a fact. When we talk about facts in German, we use the verb wissen, not kennen.
So, I know that he is coming becomes Ich weiß, dass er kommt. 🎓
Using kennen for Familiarity:
In the second sentence, I know him, we use the verb to know to show that I am familiar with him. When we want to express familiarity or acquaintance with people, places, or things in German, we use the verb kennen, not wissen.
So, I know him becomes Ich kenne ihn. 📖
Summary:
To distinguish between wissen and kennen:
- Use wissen for facts. 📖
- Use kennen for familiarity with people, places, or things. 👥
Extra Examples:
Here are some extra examples to help you practice:
- Ich kenne diesen Film. (I know this movie.) 🎬
- Ich weiß nicht, wo er wohnt. (I don’t know where he lives.) 🏠
- Kennst du die Stadt Berlin? (Do you know the city of Berlin?) 🌆
To reinforce what you’ve just read, check out our engaging video below! 🎥👇
