as you know ?

Question

Hello, everyone.I would like to know about the phrase 'as you know'. I think I know the meaning in grammar, but I seem not to get the usage in English. The equivalant in my first language to the phrase is kind of way to express my respect and modesty for the listner. But recently I have got a feeling that  in English  it does not work as in my culture. Though It probably depends on situations, I would like to know its more general usage in English.Many thanks in advance.

Avangi · Accepted Answer

Introducing Mr. Jones to an audience: As you know, Mr.Jones has just won the Nobel Prize in Literature.
(This simply stresses (or suggests) that Mr. Jones' accomplishments are well known, making Mr. Jones feel good. --- Maybe they know, maybe not.)

Admonishing someone: As you know, there's not enough time to implement such a complicated plan!
(This criticizes someone for making a stupid proposal, when he should know better.)

Context is everything.
Respect and modesty are not always prized in the US.
I think your usage is possible. You want to ask an esteemed professor a question which seems to challenge his position on something. But you don't want to appear as trying to tell him something he doesn't know.

Youngbuts · Answer

Thank you very much for your detailed comment.

When I think about what you told me, if I started my letter with such as the below, it seems to sound rude to native speakers.

As you know, the difference between before and untill is one of most confusing things for English learners. So, I have a question about ....

Does it sound rude if you suppose you get the letter from one who you don't know well?

Avangi · Answer

youngbutsDoes it sound rude if you suppose you get the letter from one who you don't know well?

Not necessarily. We need to determine your purpose in using the phrase.
You may not know the person "personally," but know him well enough to consider him knowledgeable in the subject you're about to discuss.

"As you know" may be used as a way of touching bases, so to speak (another interesting phrase).

But is it friendly, or confrontational? Has there been any prior discussion on this subject between the two of you? Do you know each other's positions on an issue? Are you known to disagree?
Do you mean,
As I assume you know,
As you certainly should know,
As I thought you knew,
As you surely must know,
??

youngbutsAs you know, the difference between before and untill is one of most confusing things for English learners. So, I have a question about ....

I'd delete the "So,". It could be taken as slightly confrontational. That is, it may sound like you're using this fact as justification to challenge the person.
We're talking about very subtle degrees of respect, but I think that's what you want.
If you use your introduction without the "so," and ask the question directly, there should be no perception of rudeness.
You're not bringing any baggage with "As you know,".

as you know ?

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

Related Questions