Know by sight Meaning in English
expression
ˈnoʊ/ /ˈbaɪ/ /ˈsaɪt
NOH by SYTE
nˈəʊ/ /bˈaɪ/ /sˈaɪt
NOH by SYTE
Definition
To recognize someone or something when you see them, but not know their name or much else about them.
Usage & Nuances
This phrase is common in informal and neutral speech. It usually means visual recognition only, without personal connection. Not the same as 'know personally.' Often used with people in your community whom you see often but have never met.
Spanish: conocer de vistaPortuguese (BR): conhecer de vistaPortuguese (PT): conhecer de vistaChinese (Simplified): 面熟 (但不熟悉名字)Chinese (Traditional): 面熟 (但不認識名字)Hindi: चेहरे से जाननाArabic: أعرف بالوجهBengali: দেখে চেনাRussian: знать в лицоJapanese: 顔を見て知っているVietnamese: biết mặtKorean: 얼굴만 알다Turkish: görünüşten tanımakUrdu: چہرے سے جانناIndonesian: mengenal dari wajah
Example Sentences
I know her by sight, but we've never spoken.
basic
Do you know him by sight?
basic
Many people in town only know me by sight.
basic
I think I know him by sight, but I can't remember where from.
natural
We all know each other by sight from seeing everyone at the market.
natural
If you only know someone by sight, it's hard to ask for their help.
natural