Saber vs Conocer

Saber vs Conocer

​Learning when to use these 2 verbs that can mean "to know" in Spanish.

​Saber - to know

​Saber is used to express knowledge of facts and information, skill or how to do something.

​¿Sabes como hacer un pastel?
Do you know how to make a pie?

Yo sé espanol.
I know Spanish

Saben que la tienda esta cerrada.
They know that the store is closed

​Conocer - to know/ to meet/to be familiar with

​Conocer is used when talking about familiarity with people, places, or things. It implies a personal acquaintance or experience with something or someone.

Conoces a Maria?
Do you know Maria?

Conozco muy bien Taiwán
I know(familiar with)Taiwan very well

​Example

​¿Sabes la ciudad de Madrid?

¿Conoces la ciudad de Madrid?

This question is asking whether the person knows some information or facts about the city of Madrid. It's like asking if the person is familiar with details, facts, or general knowledge about Madrid.

This question is asking whether the person is personally acquainted with or has experienced the city of Madrid. It implies a more direct, experiential knowledge or familiarity with the city.

​Additional Resoources

• SABER vs CONOCER - How to Say "To Know" in Spanish

• Saber vs Conocer(Blog post)