Synonyms of know-how

know-how

noun

ˈnō-ˌhau̇ 

as in expertise

knowledge gained by actually doing or living through something

you'll gain some practical know-how in this auto mechanics class

Synonyms & Similar Words

• expertise
• skills
• experience
• proficiency
• chops
• savvy
• background
• moxie
• mastery
• acquaintance
• familiarity
• intimacy
• conversance
• command

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• inexperience
• ignorance
• unfamiliarity
• unawareness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of know-how

Given room to experiment, a group with this much know-how could surely muster some breakthroughs. — Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 3 Sep. 2026

Current automation systems require technical know-how and setup, frustrating consumers who are simply interested in enjoying their pool their way, on their schedule. — Jon Viner, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026

Such know-how is essential because, as talented as Sean Steur and Aladji Bamba appear to be, neither should be expected to play consistently in the Premier League this season. — Chris Waugh, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026

Some legacy institutions hold valuable assets—authorities, data, know-how—that are not easy to move to a new home, so governments need to figure out how much of the existing system is irretrievably broken and what if anything needs to be preserved. — Jennifer Pahlka, Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2026