knowledge

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun knowledge differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of knowledge are erudition, learning, and scholarship. While all these words mean "what is or can be known by an individual or by humankind," knowledge applies to facts or ideas acquired by study, investigation, observation, or experience.

rich in the knowledge of human nature

In what contexts can erudition take the place of knowledge?

While in some cases nearly identical to knowledge, erudition strongly implies the acquiring of profound, recondite, or bookish learning.

an erudition unusual even in a scholar

When would learning be a good substitute for knowledge?

The words learning and knowledge are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, learning applies to knowledge acquired especially through formal, often advanced, schooling.

a book that demonstrates vast learning

Where would scholarship be a reasonable alternative to knowledge?

In some situations, the words scholarship and knowledge are roughly equivalent. However, scholarship implies the possession of learning characteristic of the advanced scholar in a specialized field of study or investigation.

a work of first-rate literary scholarship

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of knowledge There is no more important relationship inside Halas Hall right now than the one between Williams and Johnson, with the latter looking to pour offensive knowledge into the former as fast as possible. Sean Hammond, Chicago Tribune, 17 Apr. 2025 The struggle for knowledge, truth, and justice requires forward movement even as the world changes, as ideas and policies are tested, and as cultures develop. Ars Staff, ArsTechnica, 17 Apr. 2025 Photo: Marvel At nine episodes (power of three, baby), Agatha All Along is a study in making choices with knowledge, understanding, and intention. Nola Pfau, Vulture, 17 Apr. 2025 Thankfully, Times contributor Emily Hochberg was willing to share her knowledge of free places to hike in and around the Coachella Valley. Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 17 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for knowledge
Recent Examples of Synonyms for knowledge
Noun
  • Newsletter Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news Living longer, healthier, and happier lives is a priority for many people.
    Stephanie Edwards, Discover Magazine, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Jennifer is a senior writer at Ars Technica with a particular focus on where science meets culture, covering everything from physics and related interdisciplinary topics to her favorite films and TV series.
    Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 18 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Leaders who proactively support these areas through training, mentorship, financial literacy programs, and access to mental health resources aren't just being compassionate—they're being strategic.
    Julian Hayes II, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
  • While public libraries are primarily funded by its municipalities, federal funding that the state library receives is invested in statewide services that are available to libraries across the state such as ebook platforms, early literacy programs, summer reading, and digital library services.
    Livi Stanford, Hartford Courant, 22 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Our days in Lebanon were filled with uncertainty, violence and the constant awareness that life could drastically change in an instant.
    Dr. Ardem Patapoutian, CNN Money, 9 Apr. 2025
  • The Ministry urges Chinese nationals to carefully assess safety risks and increase their awareness of potential challenges when selecting U.S. states, particularly those affected by the new restrictions.
    Raja Krishnamoorthi, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Until Black Panther’s record breaking $235 million opening, conventional industry wisdom held that films with predominantly Black casts typically underperform financially overseas.
    Chris Lee, Vulture, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Socrates warned that putting words on paper would destroy memory, weaken wisdom, and dull the human mind.
    Ann Kowal Smith, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • In turn, this impacts the level of trust and respect among those involved, fostering a supportive work environment and opening the door for continuous learning and growth.
    Andrea Wenburg, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Her daughter who has dyslexia and receives special education services misses out on crucial learning time as a result.
    Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Meanwhile Harris Dickinson, 28 gained attention with his role in 2024’s erotic thriller film Babydoll, playing a young intern who has a tumultuous relationship with his CEO, portrayed by Nicole Kidman.
    Zoya Hasan, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
  • And his angry Instagram reaction to fans’ social media accounts picking up on his words spoke of a man who cannot live with the attention but cannot live without it.
    Steve Madeley, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • This program was designed to teach designers the business side of their craft, a topic often overlooked in traditional design education.
    Chris Gallagher, USA Today, 14 Apr. 2025
  • For a nation where the majority of the population was born after 1979, there remains a glaring gap in education and public reckoning over the Khmer Rouge’s atrocities.
    Sophal Ear, The Conversation, 14 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • By focusing on one specific activity rather than general leisure, the study revealed how knitting promotes mindfulness, sparks creativity and even encourages social connection — whether through community groups or online forums.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
  • Urge surfing is a mindfulness tool used to help people with addictions cope with cravings without acting on them.
    Katy Bowman, NPR, 13 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Knowledge.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/knowledge. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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