basic knowledge — fundamental understanding
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
The most important and simple facts or information about something, which you need before you can understand more complicated details.
Say it like a native
Textbook A rudimentary and elementary comprehension of the subject is requisite.
Native You just need a basic knowledge of it.
'Rudimentary elementary comprehension... requisite' is academic; 'a basic knowledge of' is plain.
Pattern: basic knowledge of/about [something]
In use
- You need a basic knowledge of computers to apply for this job.education
- In my opinion, having a basic knowledge of first aid is important for everyone, because you never know when you might need to help someone in an emergency.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ I have a basic knowledge in computers.
✓ I have a basic knowledge of computers.
'Knowledge OF something', not 'in'.
Common collocations
basic knowledge of— of, a, some, lack
Don't confuse it
‘Basic knowledge’ is less advanced than ‘detailed knowledge’ or ‘in-depth knowledge’.