What does “Know full well” mean?
"Know full well" means to be fully aware or knowledgeable about something.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He knows full well that he is not allowed to eat dessert before dinner.
Example
She knows full well the consequences of her actions.
Example
They know full well the importance of wearing sunscreen in the sun
Is “Know full well” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Know full well” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Know full well” effectively in context?
You can use "Know full well" to emphasize that someone is completely aware or knowledgeable about something. It implies that the person has a clear understanding of the situation or information at hand. For example, if someone is breaking a rule and you want to highlight their awareness, you might say, 'He "knows full well" that he is not allowed to eat dessert before dinner.'
- 1Parenting
She knows full well the consequences of her actions, but she still chooses to misbehave.
- 2Health and Safety
They know full well the importance of wearing sunscreen in the sun, yet they continue to neglect it.
- 3Legal Matters
The defendant knows full well the implications of their actions, but they deny any wrongdoing.
Similar phrases to “Know full well”:
Fully comprehend
To completely understand or grasp something
Example
They fully comprehend the complexity of the issue and are prepared to address it.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Know full well” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Know full well" is unknown.
Is “Know full well” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Know full well" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to emphasize someone's awareness or knowledge about a particular situation or information.
What tone does “Know full well” have?
"Know full well" conveys a tone of certainty and emphasis. It suggests that the person being referred to has no excuse for not knowing or understanding something.
Can “Know full well” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Know full well" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He "knows full well" that he is not allowed to eat dessert before dinner.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'They "know full well"!' to imply that someone is fully aware of something.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- know for certain
- be fully conscious
- understand completely
- have complete knowledge
- be fully informed
Antonyms
- be oblivious
- remain ignorant
- lack awareness
- have no clue
- be uninformed