knowledge
das Wissen
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knowledge
The totality of the knowledge a person has about certain subjects or the world. Knowledge can be gained through learning, experience, or research, for example.
Sein Wissen über Geschichte ist beeindruckend.
His knowledge of history is impressive.
knowledge
Certain knowledge of a particular fact or piece of information. In this sense, knowledge means that you have recognized something as true and do not merely suspect or believe it.
Das Geld wurde ohne mein Wissen ausgegeben.
The money was spent without my knowledge.
to the best of one's knowledge and belief
A fixed expression for acting or answering as well, honestly, and carefully as one's knowledge and belief allow. The expression is often used in formal or legal contexts.
Ich versichere nach bestem Wissen und Gewissen, dass alle Angaben vollständig sind.
I certify, to the best of my knowledge and belief, that all the information is complete.
| gender | neuter das |
|---|---|
| genitive | des Wissens |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | das Wissen | – |
| accusative | das Wissen | – |
| dative | dem Wissen | – |
| genitive | des Wissens | – |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
'Wissen' (knowledge) is a noun derived from the verb 'wissen' (to know). It therefore usually refers to something someone knows or has acquired through learning and experience.
In vielen Jahren Berufserfahrung hat sie sich ein großes Wissen angeeignet.
Through many years of professional experience, she has acquired extensive knowledge.
For comprehensive knowledge, common expressions include 'Wissen erwerben' (to acquire knowledge), 'Wissen vermitteln' (to impart knowledge), 'Wissen erweitern' (to expand one's knowledge), and 'fundiertes Wissen' (sound knowledge).
Die Fortbildung vermittelt praktisches Wissen für den Arbeitsalltag.
The training course provides practical knowledge for everyday work.
When giving a personal assessment of a fact or situation, 'Wissen' (knowledge) often appears in the expression 'nach meinem Wissen' (to my knowledge) or 'nach seinem Wissen' (to his knowledge). The preposition 'nach' (according to) requires the dative.
Nach meinem Wissen liegt der Schlüssel noch im Büro.
To my knowledge, the key is still in the office.
'Nach bestem Wissen und Gewissen' (to the best of one's knowledge and belief) is a fixed expression that is especially common in declarations, forms, and legal texts. It signals that someone is giving information carefully and honestly.
Die Zeugin erklärte nach bestem Wissen und Gewissen, was sie beobachtet hatte.
The witness stated, to the best of her knowledge and belief, what she had observed.
