prior knowledge
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prior knowledge
Knowledge that you already have about a particular topic or skill before starting something new, such as a course or an activity. Usually used in the plural.
Für diesen Programmierkurs sind keine Vorkenntnisse erforderlich.
No prior knowledge is required for this programming course.
The word is made up of the prefix 'vor-' (before) and 'Kenntnis' (knowledge). So it literally describes knowledge that you already have beforehand.
Gute Vorkenntnisse in Mathematik sind für dieses Studium eine wichtige Voraussetzung.
Good prior knowledge of mathematics is an important requirement for this degree program.
In the meaning 'vorhandenes Wissen' (existing knowledge), the plural 'Vorkenntnisse' (prior knowledge) is almost always used. Typical verbs are 'haben' (to have), 'brauchen' (to need), 'erfordern' (to require), or 'mitbringen' (to bring with you / have).
Der Bewerber konnte leider keine Vorkenntnisse im Marketing vorweisen.
Unfortunately, the applicant could not demonstrate any prior knowledge of marketing.
To say in which area someone has knowledge, use the preposition 'in' followed by the dative.
Sie hat bereits Vorkenntnisse in der Buchhaltung gesammelt.
She has already gained prior knowledge in accounting.
You can recognize the legal meaning from the context. If the topic is courts, stocks, investigations, or laws, it usually refers to special knowledge. In contexts like courses, jobs, or hobbies, it refers to general prior knowledge.
Die Staatsanwaltschaft prüft, ob der Manager mit Vorkenntnis gehandelt hat.
The public prosecutor's office is examining whether the manager acted with foreknowledge.
knowledge
'Kenntnis' and 'Vorkenntnis' both have to do with knowledge or skills in a particular area. 'Kenntnisse' says in general what someone knows or can do. 'Vorkenntnisse' means the knowledge that is already there before you start something new, for example a course or a new job. Learners may confuse the words because both are often used in the plural. The important point is: when the timing before a new start matters, 'Vorkenntnisse' fits better. Otherwise, 'Kenntnisse' is more general.
Für den Kurs am Montag sind keine Vorkenntnisse nötig.
No prior knowledge is needed for the course on Monday.
Für diese Stelle braucht man gute Kenntnisse in Deutsch und Englisch.
For this position, you need good skills in German and English.