self-knowledge

noun

self-knowl·​edge ˌself-ˈnä-lij How to pronounce self-knowledge (audio)
: knowledge or understanding of one's own capabilities, character, feelings, or motivations : self-understanding

Examples of self-knowledge in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Because having kids is (or should be) a personal decision based on desire and self-knowledge not familial, social or political pressure. Mary McNamara, Los Angeles Times, 19 Sep. 2024 Lacking self-knowledge creates a tension between the strong desire to find a partner and the need to avoid a bad match, making dating decisions feel overwhelming. Mark Travers, Forbes, 17 Sep. 2024 Researchers note that this group, which comprises about 7% of the population, consistently displays accurate self-knowledge of their abilities and has realistic aspirations. Sherri Gordon, Health, 14 Sep. 2024 John’s autobiography is distinguished by its candor, and its healthy balance of self-mockery and self-knowledge. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 12 Sep. 2024 With illuminating new self-knowledge comes crippling weakness, something Craig fully conveys in a ballsy performance covering a broad psychological and emotional spectrum. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Sep. 2024 This is what passes for epiphany for the solemn, solitary Jane, who searches for self-knowledge in a woebegone key. Parul Sehgal, The New Yorker, 5 Aug. 2024 In happier news, the Sun and Jupiter get together to facilitate some epiphanies of self-knowledge, as a treat. Jennifer Culp, Them, 2 Aug. 2024 This could also be an insightful time to gain more self-knowledge and pause in quiet contemplation, so this is the year to save your PTO days for a monastery retreat. Steph Koyfman, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'self-knowledge.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1537, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-knowledge was in 1537

Dictionary Entries Near self-knowledge

Cite this Entry

“Self-knowledge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-knowledge. Accessed 14 Oct. 2024.

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