Difference between 'CONOSCERE' and 'SAPERE' (TO KNOW)

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When learning Italian, one of the most common doubts is the difference between the verbs 'conoscere' and 'sapere'. These two verbs, although they can be translated as 'to know' in English, are used in different contexts and with different meanings. Understanding the difference between 'conoscere' and 'sapere' will not only help you avoid common mistakes, but will also allow you to express yourself more accurately and naturally. Let's look at the main differences between the two verbs and the contexts in which they are used.


SAPERE

'Sapere' indicates:
Practical or theoretical knowledge.
For example: So suonare il piano. (I know how to play the piano.)
'Sapere' is followed by an infinitive to express a learned skill or a competence developed over time.

'Sapere' is also used for specific information.
For example: Sai che ore sono?  (Do you know what time it is?)
Here 'sapere' is used to ask for or indicate specific information.


CONOSCERE

'Conoscere' indicates:
Familiarity with people, places or things.
For example: Conosco Maria. (I know Maria.)
Example: Conosci Rome? (Do you know Rome?)

'Conoscere' is always followed by a noun (such as the name of a person, town or place) and never by a verb. It is used to indicate familiarity or direct experience with something or someone, not to express skill or theoretical knowledge.


Other useful verbs: POTERE, SAPERE and RIUSCIRE

To express the ability (or inability) to do something in Italian, it is important to distinguish between three basic verbs: "potere", "sapere" and "riuscire". Although they may seem similar, each one has a specific meaning and is used in different contexts. Learning to recognise the differences will not only help you avoid confusion, but will also help you communicate more accurately and naturally in Italian.

POTERE

Indicates that the ability to do something depends on external factors or the will of a person.

For example:
Non posso guidare la macchina (I can't drive the car = I can't because I left my driving licence at home).

This verb is used when an external obstacle or condition prevents you from doing something.

SAPERE

This is used to describe a learned skill or competence.

For example:
Non so guidare la macchina. (I can't drive a car = I don't know how to drive a car).

Indicates that the person has not learnt how to do something, often in relation to learning or education.

RIUSCIRE 

This verb expresses the personal ability, both physical and mental, to perform an action at a given time.

For example:
Non riesco a guidare la macchina. (I can't drive the car = I can't manage to drive the car. I'm too tired.)

It is used to emphasise current difficulties or difficulties related to personal effort.

To summarise

Sapere: Used with an infinitive verb to indicate a learned skill or competence (e.g. to be able to play a musical instrument). It is also used to convey specific information or known details.

Conoscere : Used with a noun (people, places, things) to indicate familiarity in the sense of knowing someone or having direct experience.

Potere: Refers to the ability to do something, influenced by external conditions or will.

Riuscire: Refers to the personal, physical or mental ability to perform an action, often related to a momentary effort or difficulty.

To conclude

Understanding the difference between 'conoscere' and 'sapere' is essential for improving your understanding and use of Italian. Don't be afraid to make mistakes: the important thing is to practise and try to use these verbs in different contexts. 
Remember also to pay attention to 'potere' and 'riuscire', which add important nuances when talking about your abilities or possibilities to do something. In time, you will master these differences and be able to communicate more effectively and naturally!

Learning Italian on your own requires commitment and dedication, but with the right strategies and resources, you can achieve your goal. Remember to have fun during the process and celebrate every little bit of progress. Enjoy your journey towards learning Italian!

If you would like to expand on any of the concepts or would like to speak to a native speaker teacher qualified in teaching Italian to foreigners, please contact me at info@appylanguage.com. I will be happy to meet you and guide you in a one-to-one online session. Happy learning!

If you have any questions or would like to share your learning experience, please leave a comment below. I'm curious to know how you are progressing on your language journey!

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