German word

Erkenntnis

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛɐ̯ˈkɛntnɪs/

Meaning

  • feminine nounrealization

Example

Ich kam zur Erkenntnis.

I came to the realization.

Illustration for Erkenntnis (realization)

More examples

Wir teilen dieselbe Erkenntnis.

We share the same understanding.

Core concept

Reasoning or observation lifts a fog from a situation and reveals its meaning.

Similar words

Verständnis: Clear understanding of an explanation or conversation.
Kenntnis: Knowledge of facts or information about a subject.
Erfahrung: Skills or knowledge acquired through personal experience.
Bewusstsein: Awareness of something and its significance.

Definition in German

eine durch Überlegung oder Beobachtung gewonnene Klarheit über einen Sachverhalt

Word origin

The noun Erkenntnis derives from the verb erkennen, which combines the prefix er- with kennen, meaning to know.

Usage tips

  • Unlike English recognition, Erkenntnis usually refers to gained understanding rather than simply identifying a person or object.

Other meanings

  • understandingnoun
  • insightnoun

Word lists with this word