Knowing Facts: Weten
In English, we use the single verb "to know" for almost everything. In Dutch, you must choose between two different verbs depending on what you know.
When you know a specific fact, a piece of information, or the answer to a question, use the verb weten. You also use weten when the "knowing" is followed by a question word (like who, what, or how) or a conjunction like of (if/whether).
| During the quiz they test exactly how much we know. | Tijdens de quiz testen zij hoeveel we precies weten. |
| Do you know if the capital is located in this country? | Weet jij of de hoofdstad in dit land ligt? |
Being Familiar: Kennen
When you are acquainted with a person, a place, or a thing (such as a song, a book, or a quiz category), use the verb kennen. It means you have prior experience with the subject or are familiar with it.
| The second round is only just beginning, but I already know the category. | De tweede ronde begint pas, maar ik ken de categorie al. |
In a pub quiz setting, you will often need both verbs! You can be familiar with a subject (kennen) while knowing a specific detail about it (weten).
| I know the capital of that country, because I know the city well. | Ik weet de hoofdstad van dat land, omdat ik de stad goed ken. |
| Do you know that artist yourself, or do you only know the name? | Ken jij die artiest zelf, of weet je alleen de naam? |
Recognizing and Remembering
Winning a quiz also requires a good memory. If you recognize something you have seen or heard before—like a famous tune—use the verb herkennen.
| I recognize this melody, but I do not know who sings the song. | Ik herken deze melodie, maar ik weet niet wie het lied zingt. |
When you want to say that you have memorized or successfully kept a piece of information in your head, use the verb onthouden (to remember).
| Can you remember the title of that book? | Kan jij de titel van dat boek onthouden? |
| I have remembered the general information, so I know the answer. | Ik heb de algemene informatie onthouden, dus ik weet het antwoord. |