cognizant
Definitions
Aware of or fully informed about something (usually 'cognizant of').
意识到的，了解的（常作 cognizant of）。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedStraight from Latin cognōscere ('to get to know') — the same source as quaint and acquaint, but via the undisguised Latin form. Cognizant means 'in a state of knowing,' i.e. aware. It is the formal twin of 'aware' and the clearest proof of the family's 'know' root.
Root cog still carries 6 more wordsUsage Guide
- Almost always 'cognizant of': be cognizant of the risks.
- Formal/professional register — a step up from 'aware of,' common in legal, corporate, and academic writing.
Example Sentences
- 1.
Investors should be cognizant of the risks involved.
- 2.
She was fully cognizant of the consequences of her decision.
Easily Confused
cognizant vs aware — same meaning, but cognizant is more formal and slightly heavier. Use 'aware' in everyday speech; reserve 'cognizant' for formal or written contexts ('the board is cognizant of investor concerns').