Knowingly: meaning, definitions and examples

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knowingly

[ˈnəʊɪŋli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a conscious and deliberate manner

Knowingly means being aware of and intentional about one's actions or decisions. It implies a level of understanding and awareness of the consequences. When someone acts knowingly, they are fully informed and do so with purpose.

Synonyms

consciously, deliberately, intentionally.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
knowingly	This word is used when something is done with full awareness and knowledge, often implying that the person is aware of possible consequences. It can sometimes have a negative connotation. She knowingly ignored the warnings. He knowingly hid the truth from everyone.
deliberately	This word is used when something is done on purpose, often after careful thought, and can sometimes imply a slow and careful manner. It can have a negative connotation if the action results in harm or trouble. He deliberately spread the rumor. She deliberately broke the vase.
intentionally	Used when an action is done on purpose, with a clear aim or reason in mind. It often implies a directed and planned effort. He intentionally moved to a different city. She intentionally left the door unlocked.
consciously	Use this word when someone is aware of their actions or feelings. It suggests mindfulness and careful consideration. I consciously chose to eat healthier food. She consciously made an effort to be more patient.

Examples of usage

He knowingly ignored the warning signs.
She signed the contract knowingly, fully aware of the terms.
They proceeded with the project knowingly, despite the risks involved.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

having or showing knowledge or awareness

When used as an adjective, knowingly describes someone who possesses knowledge or awareness about a particular subject. It suggests a level of understanding or recognition of facts or information.

Synonyms

aware, cognizant, informed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
knowingly	Repeated word entry; see first entry.
aware	Used to indicate someone is conscious or mindful of a situation or fact but does not imply deep knowledge or specific details. I am aware of the issue. She is aware that we will be late.
informed	Used when someone has been provided with detailed information or has a good understanding of a subject. Often used to show thorough understanding or preparation. Make sure you are fully informed before making a decision. The doctor kept me informed about my treatment options.
cognizant	A more formal term used to describe being fully informed or aware of something, often used in professional or academic contexts. He is cognizant of the risks involved. We must be cognizant of the potential impacts.

Examples of usage

He is a knowingly skilled negotiator.
She gave a knowingly accurate answer.
The suspect made a knowingly false statement.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old English 'cnāwan,' which means 'to know' or 'to recognize.'
The suffix '-ly' is used to turn adjectives into adverbs, meaning the word describes how an action is done.
The word has been in use since the 14th century, showing long-standing importance in language.

Legal Context

In legal terms, acting knowingly can sometimes determine a person's liability for their actions.
Certain laws require a person to act knowingly to establish intent behind a behavior, especially in criminal law.
Wrongdoing can carry extra penalties if it is proved that actions were taken knowingly.

Psychology

Understanding actions as 'knowingly' done involves cognitive awareness, impacting how individuals make decisions.
Research shows that people are more likely to remember actions they performed knowingly rather than those done unconsciously.
Knowingly making a choice often leads to higher satisfaction and ownership of that decision.

Philosophy

Philosophers explore what it means to know something, with 'knowingly' reflecting deeper knowledge and awareness.
Discussions about free will often involve whether actions can be considered knowingly chosen if influenced by external factors.
The distinction between 'to know' and 'to believe' is crucial in debates on knowledge epistemology.

Everyday Use

People often say they 'knowingly' lied or misled to indicate that they were aware of the truth while deceiving.
In casual conversations, it's common to say someone did something knowingly to highlight their awareness or intentionality.
The word adds emphasis in statements, such as 'I knowingly took the risk,' to clarify personal responsibility.

Translations

Translations of the word "knowingly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deliberadamente

🇮🇳 जानबूझकर

🇩🇪 wissentlich

🇮🇩 dengan sengaja

🇺🇦 свідомо

🇵🇱 świadomie

🇯🇵 故意に (こいに)

🇫🇷 sciemment

🇪🇸 a sabiendas

🇹🇷 bilinçli olarak

🇰🇷 의도적으로

🇸🇦 عن عمد

🇨🇿 vědomě

🇸🇰 vedome

🇨🇳 故意地

🇸🇮 namerno

🇮🇸 viljandi

🇰🇿 саналы түрде

🇬🇪 გაგნებით

🇦🇿 qəsdən

🇲🇽 a sabiendas

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,126 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

...
9123 inhibitor
9124 credible
9125 urea
9126 knowingly
9127 coded
9128 articulate
9129 secrecy
...