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Seagull Posted 11 years ago
Grammar

The usage of the verb "know"

Regarding the following sentence:

When I met Tom for the first time in years, I was really surprised to find [learn/ see/ know] that he had completely changed.

I think that in a sentence like this, we can use "find,""learn,"and "see," we cannot use "know" because it is unnatural. Is my understanding correct?
  

Top answer

"find" and "see" are fine. "learn" is possible, but it suggests that he (or someone) told you, rather than it being apparent from his appearance or behaviour. "know" doesn't work in that sentence.

— GPY

  • "find" and "see" are fine.
  • "learn" is possible, but it suggests that he (or someone) told you, rather than it being apparent from his appearance or behaviour.
  • "know" doesn't work in that sentence.
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4 Answers
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"find" and "see" are fine.

"learn" is possible, but it suggests that he (or someone) told you, rather than it being apparent from his appearance or behaviour.

"know" doesn't work in that sentence.
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seagullwe cannot use "know"
Correct. The usual verb that references the moment of "starting to know" or "coming to know" is "find out", but "find" without "out" is also possible in the context of your sentence. "know" can't reference that moment between when you didn't know and when you knew.

CJ
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Thank you so much indeed, GPY.
I didn't know exactly what "learn" means in a case like this.
Thanks again.
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Thank you very much, CalifJim.
I appreciate your reference to "find out" because I was wondering if we could use it in this kind of situation.
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