KNOW vs MEET

MEET = first encounter, KNOW = be acquainted with (after you've met)

Level: A2-B1
easy
⏱️ 5 minutes
Question 1 of 100 correct so far

Question 1

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

I want to _____ new people at the party.

Context: First encounters

🧠Why This Mistake Happens

The Problem:

Spanish 'conocer' means both 'to know (be acquainted with)' and 'to meet (for the first time)'

Linguistic Reason:

Spanish uses the same verb (conocer) with tense indicating first encounter vs ongoing knowledge: 'Conozco a María' (I know María) vs 'Conocí a María ayer' (I met María yesterday). English separates these into KNOW (be familiar with) and MEET (encounter for first time).

Spanish Example:

Spanish: Conozco a Juan / Conocí a Juan en 2015

Spanish uses same verb with tense indicating first encounter vs ongoing knowledge

💡 Quick Rule:

MEET = first encounter, KNOW = be acquainted with (after you've met)

Common Examples:

I knew my best friend in university

I met my best friend in university

First encounter in past

Nice to know you!

Nice to meet you!

Greeting at first meeting

Where did you know your husband?

Where did you meet your husband?

Question about first encounter

💡 Tips for Success

  • MEET = first encounter (I met her in 2020)
  • KNOW = be acquainted with, after meeting (I know her well now)
  • Spanish \'conocer\' = both, English separates them
  • Timeline: First you MEET someone, then you KNOW them

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