Spanish 101 · Comparison
saber vs. conocer
Both mean 'to know' but apply to different kinds of knowledge.
The core distinction
Both mean 'to know' but apply to different kinds of knowledge.
When you are unsure, ask: does the sentence stress identity, location, time, purpose, completion, or familiarity? The columns below collect the patterns Spanish 101/102 courses drill most often — match them to what your professor models in class.
When to use each
saber
- Facts and information: Sé la respuesta.
- How to do something: Sé nadar.
- Memorized content: Sé el poema.
¿Sabes dónde está el banco?
Sé tocar la guitarra.
No sé su nombre.
conocer
- People: Conozco a María.
- Places: Conozco París.
- Things (familiarity): Conozco ese libro.
Conozco a tu hermano.
¿Conoces Madrid?
Ella conoce ese restaurante.
FAQ
When do you use saber vs. conocer in Spanish?
Both mean 'to know' but apply to different kinds of knowledge. Use the bullet lists and examples on this page as a checklist.
What is the difference between saber and conocer?
They often look similar in English glosses, but Spanish keeps separate patterns. Read the left column for the first idea and the right column for the second.
How do I remember when to use saber?
Memorize two or three “signature” sentences from each side, then swap words to build your own. Short daily practice in Chapurra locks in the contrast faster than cramming.