Not know any better

usgb
phrase

To be unaware or naive about the proper way to behave in a particular situation.

He is just a boy. He didn't mean to break that, he simply didn't know any better.
Visual representation of "not know any better" - To be unaware or naive about the proper way to behave in a particular situation

Often appears as...

  • he didn't know any better
  • she didn't know any better
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "not know any better"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Context Clues

Look for context clues that indicate innocence or unfamiliarity with norms.

Illustration for Context Clues
She walked into the men's room by mistake; she didn't know any better.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Age Implications

Often used for children or young people who are still learning social rules.

Illustration for Age Implications
The toddler grabbed the dog's tail—he doesn't know any better.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Ignorance

It implies a lack of knowledge, not the unwillingness to learn or understand.

Illustration for Not Ignorance
He interrupted the meeting, not knowing any better about the protocol.
Visual representation of the word "Not know any better"

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