Cognizance

usgb/ˈkɑːɡnɪzəns/
noun

Knowledge or awareness of something.

The manager had no cognizance of the incident.
Visual representation of "cognizance" - Knowledge or awareness of something

Often appears as...

  • take cognizance of
  • have cognizance of

Usage tips

Formal

Academic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "cognizance"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Subject Relevance

Use 'cognizance' when an issue or subject is relevant to someone's interests or responsibilities.

Illustration for Subject Relevance
The engineer took cognizance of the new safety protocols.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Unexpected Awareness

'Cognizance' implies gaining knowledge unexpectedly or coming to realize.

Illustration for Unexpected Awareness
She suddenly took cognizance of the fact that the deadline was today.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Formal Expression

The term 'cognizance' is formal and more common in written English than spoken.

Illustration for Formal Expression
Upon taking cognizance of the issue, the committee acted promptly.
Word comparison image

Compare with

awarecomprehensionconsciousknowledgeperceptionrealizationrecognitionunderstand
Look up Compare with
Visual representation of the word "Cognizance"

Never forget "Cognizance"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top