know-how

[noh-hou]

noun

1. knowledge of how to do something; faculty or skill for a particular activity; expertise.

   Designing a computer requires a lot of know-how.

know-how

noun

1. ingenuity, aptitude, or skill; knack

2. commercial and saleable knowledge of how to do a particular thing; experience

Word History and Origins

Origin of know-how¹

1830–40, noun use of verb phrase know how

Example Sentences

His gaming know-how, unwavering compassion and ability to understand others’ motives led to Arisu ultimately winning the games.

From Salon

Home advantage is significant, but so is experience and know-how.

From BBC

They took a lot of know-how with them.

From Salon

Third, there is a pronounced focus throughout the changes on beefing up the economic know-how in 10 Downing Street.

From BBC

"They've got the know-how and the knowledge of winning the league twice over the last few years. It's a sign of a good team when you're winning games."

From BBC

Related Words

• ability 
• aptitude 
• background 
• capability 
• expertise 
• ingenuity 
• knowledge 
• proficiency 
• wisdom