I know

Question

"I know I’ve heard of those before… but where?"

Obviously, this sentence works without "I know" so what kind of function does this I know have in the sentence? In other words, What are differences of meaning, nuance or implication between "I know I’ve heard of those before… but where?" and "I’ve heard of those before… but where?"? Thanks in advance!

The line is quoted from

in 1:33
The transcript is in http://mlp.wikia.com/wiki/Transcripts/Friendship_is_Magic,_part_1

PonyFan · Accepted Answer

If you don't mind, could anyone help me?

Stoyanov · Answer

Hi PonyFan!

"(I know) I've heard of those before... but where?" - "I know" is an intensifier. It can be substituted by "I am sure I've heard...." or "I am positive that I've heard..." It just emphasizes the fact that I have heard of the object of the sentence.

Hope this helps!

CalifJim · Answer

PonyFanwhat kind of function does this I know have in the sentence?

I know I've [ heard / seen ] ... shows that the speaker can't remember something and is trying to recall it or that the speaker isn't clear about the details of what was heard or seen.

I've heard ... or I've seen ... by itself just states the facts as if the speaker might easily be able to give any details if necessary.

Adding I know at the beginning shows us that the speaker is making a commentary on what he says next.

These patterns are often followed by a clause that shows doubt or contradiction.

I know I put the keys on that table, but they're not there now!
______________

Compare:

I could have sworn I put the keys on that table, but they're not there now!

It's the same sort of meaning.

CJ

Stoyanov · Answer

CalifJimI know I've [ heard / seen ] ... shows that the speaker can't remember something and is trying to recall it or that the speaker isn't clear about the details of what was heard or seen.I've heard ... or I've seen ... by itself just states the facts as if the speaker might easily be able to give any details if necessary.Adding I know at the beginning shows us that the speaker is making a commentary on what he says next.These patterns are often followed by a clause that shows doubt or contradiction.I know I put the keys on that table, but they're not there now!____________ Compare:I could have sworn I put the keys on that table, but they're not there now!It's the same sort of meaning.CJ

I'm sorry for my wrong interpretation. Yours does indeed make more sense.

PonyFan · Answer

The answer is simply clear! Thanks very much!

I know

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