Know what you’re talking about

usgb
verb phrase

To be knowledgeable or well-informed about a particular subject or issue.

I've been studying climate change for years. So, I know what I'm talking about.
Visual representation of "know what you’re talking about" - To be knowledgeable or well-informed about a particular subject or issue

Often appears as...

  • don't you know what you're talking about
  • i don't think he knows what he's talking about
verb phrase

Used to question or to express doubt about someone's knowledge or understanding about a particular topic.

Do you really know what you're talking about? Your facts don't seem quite right.
Visual representation of "know what you’re talking about" - Used to question or to express doubt about someone's knowledge or understanding about a particular topic.

Often appears as...

  • are you sure you know what you're talking about
  • i doubt she knows what she's talking about

Usage tips

Disapproving

Colloquial

verb phrase

To be knowledgeable or well-informed about a particular subject or issue.

I've been studying climate change for years. So, I know what I'm talking about.
Visual representation of "know what you’re talking about" - To be knowledgeable or well-informed about a particular subject or issue

Often appears as...

  • don't you know what you're talking about
  • i don't think he knows what he's talking about
verb phrase

Used to question or to express doubt about someone's knowledge or understanding about a particular topic.

Do you really know what you're talking about? Your facts don't seem quite right.
Visual representation of "know what you’re talking about" - Used to question or to express doubt about someone's knowledge or understanding about a particular topic.

Often appears as...

  • are you sure you know what you're talking about
  • i doubt she knows what she's talking about

Usage tips

Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "know what you’re talking about"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Self-assurance

The phrase implies confidence in one's own understanding or expertise on a topic.

Illustration for Self-assurance
Trust me on the software update—I know what I'm talking about.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Expert Opinion

Used to emphasize that the speaker has a depth of knowledge, often from experience or study.

Illustration for Expert Opinion
She can give you advice about taxes; she knows what she's talking about.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Conversational Credibility

Asserts credibility in a conversation and may discourage others from questioning the speaker.

Illustration for Conversational Credibility
Listen to Dr. Shaw discuss the treatment—he knows what he's talking about.
Visual representation of the word "Know what you’re talking about"

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