What do hit the books, knowledge is power, and book smart, have in common? They are all knowledge idioms! Today we will learn 11 of them! Not only that, but we will look at plenty of sentences about knowledge and even a proverb on knowledge! One thing I tell my English students: hitting the books is one sure-fire way to improve your English – it may not be fun, but simply studying the language and reading lots can be of great benefit. So, “hit the books” is officially our first knowledge idiom today! There’s lots to see here so let’s jump right in!
Knowledge idioms
Here are 10 knowledge idioms along with their meanings. Practice reading them out until you can pronounce them all nice and smoothly!
| Idioms about knowledge | Meanings |
|---|---|
| Knowledge is power | Having knowledge is a powerful tool—it can give one an advantage in life. |
| A little learning is a dangerous thing | This idiom says that a person with superficial, light knowledge might make poor decisions or incorrect assumptions. |
| An old head on young shoulders | A young person who thinks and acts like an older person who has more experience. This is quite a positive idiom. |
| Burn the midnight oil | This means to work late into the night or early morning; striving hard to study or work. We might do this before big exams! |
| Hit the books | If you begin studying in a serious manner, then you are hitting the books! Good job! |
| In the dark | This one means to lack knowledge or information about something. It’s often used when we talk about secrets or someone’s “big news”. EG: I was on the dark about their divorce! (I had not heard about it) |
| School of hard knocks | This knowledge idiom describes the experience of learning from life’s hard realities, often through personal difficulties or challenges. If you were very poor when young, or grew up in a dangerous area, then perhaps you went to the school of hard knocks. |
| You can’t teach an old dog new tricks | This common phrase means it is hard to change someone’s long-established habits or ways, particularly as they age! |
| Learn the ropes | This one means to learn the basic steps or skills of something – usually used to describe what a beginner is doing. |
| Book smart | Having knowledge gained from books and formal education, rather than practical experience. It kind of implies that you might not be too successful in the real world! |
| Street smart | Having the experience and knowledge necessary to deal with the potential difficulties or dangers of life in big towns or cities – an opposite expression to the above “book smart”. Ideally, we can be both! |
Related: 25 Idioms For Happiness: How To Be Joyful In English!
Knowledge idioms: example sentences
I hope you have understood all the above knowledge idioms if you are a learner of English. If you are a native speaker of English, I hope they have reminded you, if you have forgotten any! Now we will look at some example sentences using them. I would also strongly encourage you to make your own sentences, as it can help you to remember the idioms!
- Knowledge is power: Maria believes that reading books gives her an advantage because knowledge is power.
- A little learning is a dangerous thing: Danny fixed the electrical socket without reading up on how to do it and got shocked. It just goes to show a little learning is a dangerous thing.
- An old head on young shoulders: Kylie is only twelve but gives great advice, truly an old head on young shoulders.
- Burn the midnight oil: Sam has to burn the midnight oil to study for his English grammar test.
- Hit the books: With her exams approaching, Lily decided to hit the books.
- In the dark: We were in the dark about the change in schedule until the last minute. I wish the manager had said something earlier!
- School of hard knocks: Joe learned his life skills through the school of hard knocks, not in a classroom. He is a survivor for sure!
- You can’t teach an old dog new tricks: Trying to get grandpa to start using a computer was futile – you can’t teach an old dog new tricks!
- Learn the ropes: The first week at a new job is almost always about learning the ropes.
- Book smart: Susan is very book smart, excelling in all her academic courses.
- Street smart: Mike doesn’t have a formal education, but he’s very street smart and knows London like the back of his hand.
Related: 20 Idioms With Their Meanings And Sentences: Better Speaking!
Knowledge in a sentence
Now that we have covered our fun idioms about knowledge, let’s practice another skill – using knowledge in a sentence:
- Her knowledge of Chinese culture makes her a valued member of the international team.
- Mark’s knowledge of tropical fruits was evident when he flawlessly prepared the exotic fruit platter!
- Jake has tons of knowledge about the best beaches in this area, ask him if you want to find a good one.
- A baker’s knowledge of yeast fermentation is key to making the perfect loaf of bread.
- Tony’s knowledge of marine life really makes his scuba diving tours informative.
Sentences about knowledge
Here are another 5 sentences about knowledge – I would recommend reading and repeating all of them!
- Alyssa’s knowledge of knitting patterns enables her to create really pretty sweaters.
- A thorough knowledge of budgeting techniques, learned in college, helps her manage her finances efficiently.
- Amanda’s knowledge of ancient Roman roads was invaluable during her archaeological research.
- His knowledge of guitar chords is a significant factor in his ability as a music teacher.
- Ophelia has a lot of knowledge about the local restaurants.
Proverb on knowledge
Here is a slightly deep proverb on knowledge: Knowledge is a treasure, but practice is the key to it.
This proverb emphasizes that while acquiring knowledge is incredibly valuable, it’s the application of that knowledge through practice that truly unlocks its benefits. Knowledge alone is like a hoard of treasure; its full value is realized only when it is put to use. In other words, learning is not complete without the corresponding action that takes advantage of what has been learned. Here is a little paragraph that can show you a bit more about its meaning:
In his years as a chef, Tom has come to appreciate that while cookbooks are bursting with culinary wisdom, it’s the hours spent perfecting recipes that transform a meal from ordinary to extraordinary. His expertise underscores the truth of the proverb, “Knowledge is a treasure, but practice is the key to it.” Through daily practice, Tom has figured out how to make his dishes a delight to all who taste them. Seriously, you should try his omelet!
Idioms about knowledge: FAQs
So far today we have looked at not only knowledge idioms but also sentences about knowledge & a proverb! Now let’s round things off a bit with some general questions about knowledge idioms, and the word in general.
Idioms about knowledge: What does “two heads are better than one” mean?
The proverb “two heads are better than one” suggests that collaborative work often produces better results than solo efforts. It emphasizes the idea that two people may come up with more effective solutions than one person alone, thanks to the combination of their individual strengths, perspectives, and creativity. For example, if you’re trying to solve a complex problem, you may hear someone say:
- Let’s work together on this—after all, two heads are better than one!
Idioms about knowledge: What does “wrap your head around that” mean?
To “wrap your head around” something means to comprehend or understand something that is confusing or complicated. It often implies a need for someone to think carefully and deeply in order to grasp the full meaning or implications of the subject at hand. For instance, if a concept in quantum physics seems baffling, a teacher might say:
- Take your time—it can be tough to wrap your head around that.
What is knowledge?
Knowledge refers to the information, understanding, and skills that a person has acquired through experience or education. It encompasses facts, descriptions, and awareness gained through learning or practicing. Knowledge is what fuels decision-making and problem-solving processes. As an example:
- Gaining knowledge about healthy eating can definitely help you to make better food choices.
What would you like to gain more knowledge about?
Knowledge vs wisdom: what’s the difference?
Knowledge and wisdom are related but distinct concepts. Knowledge is the collection of information and facts that one learns over time, while wisdom is the insightful application of knowledge and experiences in a way that is judicious and thoughtful. Wisdom often requires judgment and the ability to make sound decisions. For example, while someone might have knowledge of investment strategies (knowledge), deciding when and how to invest that money wisely (wisdom) is a different skill set.
| Knowledge vs. other concepts | The comparison |
|---|---|
| Knowledge vs Wisdom | Knowledge is a collection of learned information; wisdom is the insightful application of knowledge. |
| Knowledge vs Information | Information is raw data; knowledge is the ability to interpret and utilize that information. |
| Knowledge vs Intelligence | Intelligence is the innate ability to learn; knowledge is what is specifically learned. |
| Knowledge vs Skill | Knowledge is understanding a subject; skill is the ability to perform tasks related to that subject. |
Knowledge vs information
Knowledge and information are closely intertwined, yet they differ in application and depth. Information consists of data or details that are factual and can be recorded. Knowledge, on the other hand, is the framework that allows individuals to interpret, assess, and utilize information. To illustrate, reading a manual provides you with information about how to use a device; applying that information effectively translates into knowledge.
Knowledge vs intelligence
Knowledge pertains to the specific information and skills acquired, while intelligence is the innate ability to learn, understand, and make judgments or have opinions based on reason. Knowledge can be acquired and expanded upon, but intelligence is often considered an inherent capacity. For example, someone might be intelligent enough to grasp advanced mathematical concepts quickly (intelligence), but their knowledge of those concepts depends on learning and study (knowledge).
Knowledge vs skill
Knowledge is about the theoretical understanding of a subject, whereas skill refers to the ability to perform tasks proficiently, often developed through practice. Knowledge provides the groundwork for developing skills, but it is through continual practice and execution that skills are honed and perfected. For instance, a person might have extensive knowledge about the rules and strategies of soccer (knowledge), but actually being able to play soccer well requires repeatedly practicing the sport (skill).
Knowledge idioms: a great way to build your vocab!
I hope you have enjoyed reading and repeating today’s knowledge idioms, and have also been able to make your own sentences with them! If not, keep on trying! The word is such a major one in English, and we therefore also practiced sentences about knowledge, too! One final thought: As an English learner, how can you boost your English knowledge every single day? By reading the many articles on the Natural English Central site!
Until next time, cheers!
Eliott