I don't know

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English

English phrasebook
This entry is part of the phrasebook project, which presents criteria for inclusion based on utility, simplicity and commonness.

Pronunciation

  • (US) IPA(key):
    • Audio (Mid-Atlantic)(file)
  • (tonal) IPA(key): , ,
  • Audio (UK)(file)
  • Rhymes: -əʊ

Phrase

I don't know

  1. Used in response to a question or command in which the target person does not know the answer to or how to respond.
    • 1982, “You Can't Do That on Television”, in Nickelodeon, season 3, episode 11:
      Mr. Schidtler: Does anybody here have any idea why "Inestine" was regarded as a great scientist? Kevin?
      Kevin: Oh, uh, I don't know.
  2. Used to indicate that one is speculating (often used sarcastically when stating the obvious).
    Maybe you could, I don't know, directly talk to her about it instead of complaining to me for once?
  3. (UK) Used to express exasperation or incredulity about a given situation or person.
    The audacity of that lad... I don't know.
  4. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see I,‎ don't,‎ know.
    • 1984, Alasdair, You Can't Do That on Television, Nickelodeon, season 5, episode 24:
      I don't know why Blip just shuts off the power and then blames it on the weather.

Antonyms

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Translations

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