sí, lo sé
/ˈsi lo ˈse/word by word
The English phrase "yeah, I know" is translated into Spanish as sí, lo sé.
This phrase is used to confirm that you already possess the information currently being discussed. You can add the adverb perfectamente before the verb sé to emphasize understanding.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of sí (yes), lo (it/him) and sé (I know).
Which one should you use?
You can also say ya lo sé to mean "I already know". Adding ya (already) emphasizes that the information is not new to the speaker, often used when someone is repeating something you already know.
How does it change in a sentence?
In Spanish, the direct object pronoun lo is required to refer to the information being known, whereas in English 'it' is often omitted in the phrase 'I know'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈsi lo ˈse/
Did you know?
- The word sí is a linguistic relative of the English word 'self', both descending from the same Proto-Indo-European root.
- If you have learned your information through a rumor or a piece of gossip, you would likely say ya me enteré instead of ya lo sé. This nuance distinguishes between factual knowledge and hearing a story.
- Spanish has a different verb for knowing a person or a place, conocer, which cannot be used in the phrase lo sé because that verb is reserved for facts and information.
Examples in context
- Cuando nos reunamos mañana, necesito los informes. – Sí, lo sé.When we meet tomorrow, I need the reports. – Yes, I know.
- Su exposición fue cancelada debido a las condiciones climáticas. – Sí, estoy al tanto.Your presentation was canceled due to weather conditions. – Yes, I'm aware.
- Sí, lo sé.Yeah, I know.
- No hace falta que me lo digas, sí, lo sé.You don't need to tell me, yeah, I know.
- Dime la verdad, ¿sabes que es tarde? Sí, lo sé.Tell me the truth, do you know it's late? Yeah, I know.
Example conversation
Mateo and Sofía are discussing a change in their schedule.
- MateoSofía, el examen es el próximo lunes.Sofía, the exam is next Monday.
- SofíaSí, lo sé, Mateo.Yeah, I know, Mateo.
- Mateo¿Estás lista para estudiar?Are you ready to study?
- SofíaSí, estoy muy preparada.Yes, I am very prepared.
