cognizance

/'kɔgnizəns/

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Word: Cognizance

Part of Speech: Noun

Meaning:

Cognizance refers to the awareness or understanding of something. It describes the ability to perceive, know, or be conscious of something. When someone has cognizance of a situation, they are aware of it and understand it.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "cognizance" when talking about awareness or knowledge of a particular topic, issue, or situation. It is often used in more formal or academic contexts.

Example Sentences:

1. The teacher was surprised by the students' cognizance of environmental issues.
2. The lawyer argued that her client had no cognizance of the law when he made his decision.
3. After discussing the problem, he finally had cognizance of the impact of his actions.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "cognizance" can be used in legal or philosophical discussions. For example: - "The court must take cognizance of the new evidence presented." - "The philosopher's work emphasizes the importance of self-cognizance in understanding human behavior."

Word Variants:

• Cognizant (adjective): Being aware or knowledgeable. For example, "She is cognizant of the challenges ahead."
• **Cognizance (noun) can also be spelled as "cognizance" (British English) or "cognizance" (American English), but they have the same meaning.

Different Meanings:

While "cognizance" primarily means awareness or knowledge, it can also refer to: - A formal acknowledgment of an issue or topic, especially in legal or official contexts.

Synonyms:

• Awareness
• Knowledge
• Perception
• Understanding
• Recognition

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "cognizance" is not commonly used in idioms or phrasal verbs, you might encounter phrases that convey similar meanings, such as: - "In the know": This means being informed or aware of something. - Example: "She’s always in the know about the latest trends."

Academic

Noun

1. range or scope of what is perceived
2. range of what one can know or understand
   • beyond my ken
3. having knowledge of
   • he had no awareness of his mistakes
   • his sudden consciousness of the problem he faced
   • their intelligence and general knowingness was impressive

Synonyms

• ken
• awareness
• consciousness
• cognisance
• knowingness