Know what's what Meaning in English
expression
ˈnoʊ/ /ˈhwəts/, /ˈwəts/ /ˈhwət/, /ˈwət
NOH wuts WUT
nˈəʊ/ /wɒts/ /wˈɒt
noh WOTS WOT
Definition
To understand what is truly important or correct in a situation; to be knowledgeable and experienced about how things really work.
Usage & Nuances
Informal expression. Used to show someone is not easily fooled, understands priorities, or is experienced. Common in workplaces or when discussing expertise. Not for technical knowledge—means real-world sense or savvy.
Spanish: saber lo que es importante - saber lo que se debe saberPortuguese (BR): saber o que é importante - saber das coisasPortuguese (PT): saber o que interessa - perceber do assuntoChinese (Simplified): 知道内情 - 明白什么是重要的Chinese (Traditional): 知道內情 - 明白什麼是重要的Hindi: असलियत जानना - क्या महत्वपूर्ण है यह जाननाArabic: يعرف ما يجري - يعرف الأهمBengali: কী আসল তা জানা - কি হচ্ছে তা বোঝাRussian: разбираться в деле - знать толкJapanese: 事情の本質をわかっている - 何が重要か理解しているVietnamese: biết rõ mọi chuyện - hiểu vấn đềKorean: 상황을 잘 알다 - 중요한 것을 알다Turkish: işin aslını bilmek - neyin ne olduğunu bilmekUrdu: اصل بات جاننا - معاملات کو سمجھناIndonesian: tahu seluk-beluknya - paham situasi
Example Sentences
She really knows what's what in this business.
basic
Ask Tom. He knows what's what around here.
basic
If you want advice, talk to someone who knows what's what.
basic
Don't worry, I know what's what—just follow my lead.
natural
After working here for years, she really knows what's what.
natural
Only a few people here know what's what and the rest just pretend.
natural