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Collocation

passive knowledge

noun phrase
UK /ˈpæsɪv ˈnɒlɪdʒ/
US /ˈpæsɪv ˈnɑlɪdʒ/

Passive knowledge is understanding something (like a word or topic) when you see or hear it, even if you can’t easily use it yourself.

passive knowledge: Passive knowledge is understanding something (like a word or topic) when you see or hear it, even if you…

Meanings

noun phrase

knowledge you can recognize and understand but do not regularly use or express

passive knowledge: knowledge you can recognize and understand but do not regularly use or express
noun phrase

in language learning, the ability to understand words or grammar in reading or listening more than in speaking or writing

Common mistake

Learners often confuse passive knowledge with active knowledge and say they “know” a word even though they can only recognize it, not use it correctly.