New vs Knew

The Meaning of "New"

"New" is an adjective. It describes something that is recently made, discovered, or introduced. We use "new" when talking about things that are modern or that haven't been used or known before.

Examples:

• I bought a new phone yesterday.

• We moved into a new house last week.

• There is a new student in my class.

The Meaning of "Knew"

"Knew" is the past tense of the verb "know." We use "knew" when we are talking about something we were aware of in the past or had information about before. It's used to show that we had knowledge of something earlier.

Examples:

• I knew the answer to the question.

• She knew how to solve the problem.

• They knew him when he was younger.

How to Remember the Difference

• New describes something recent or not old. Think of "new" things you buy, like a new car, new clothes, or a new phone.

• Knew is about something you already learned or were aware of. It's the past form of "know," so it refers to knowledge you had in the past.

Here’s a simple trick: “Knew” has the letter “k,” just like “know.” That can remind you that it’s related to having knowledge or being aware of something.

Common Errors

1. Mixing up the meanings:

• Incorrect: I new the answer.

• Correct: I knew the answer.

2. Spelling mistakes:

• Incorrect: I just bought a knew car.

• Correct: I just bought a new car.

3. Using "new" instead of "knew":

• Incorrect: She new about the surprise.

• Correct: She knew about the surprise.

Everyday Use

• "New" is used to describe things that are modern, fresh, or recently introduced. You can talk about new places, new ideas, or new friends.

• Example: I need a new jacket for winter.

• "Knew" is used when you want to talk about something you were aware of in the past. You can talk about people you knew, facts you knew, or skills you knew.

• Example: He knew all the answers on the test.

FAQ

Is "knew" a verb or an adjective?

"Knew" is a verb. It is the past tense of the verb "know."

What is the difference between "new" and "knew"?

"New" means something that is recent or modern. "Knew" is the past tense of "know," which means to be aware of something in the past.

Can I use "knew" for something happening now?

No, "knew" is only used for things that happened in the past. For the present, use "know."

How do I use "new" in a sentence?

Use "new" when talking about something that is fresh or recent.

• Example: I just got a new job.

What is the present tense of "knew"?

The present tense of "knew" is "know." Use "know" when talking about something you are aware of now.

• Example: I know the answer.