know one’s shit: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘know one's shit’ mean?

The idiom "know one's shit" means to be very knowledgeable or well-informed about a particular subject or topic. It implies a deep understanding and expertise in that area.

Idiom Explorer

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The idiom "know one's shit" is a commonly used expression in American English, particularly in informal and colloquial settings. It is a way of expressing a high level of knowledge or expertise in a particular subject or field. The idiom suggests that the person referred to not only knows a subject, but they know it exceptionally well, in a comprehensive and thorough manner.

Despite its vulgar nature, the idiom has become an established part of American English slang. Its usage has become more widespread in recent decades, particularly in informal conversations, popular culture, and online platforms.

He has great expertise in language and expression.

One related idiom to "know one's shit" is "know one's ass from a hole in the ground." This expression is used to describe someone who lacks basic knowledge or understanding. It suggests that the person is so clueless that they cannot even distinguish their posterior from a hole in the ground.

Another related idiom is "know what is what." This expression is used to describe someone who has a clear understanding of a situation or topic. It implies that the person is well-informed and knowledgeable, and they are able to differentiate between what is important or relevant and what is not.

The idiom "know one's shit" can be applied in various contexts to describe different areas of expertise or knowledge. It is not limited to any specific subject or field, allowing for its application in various domains. For example, one could say, "He really knows his shit when it comes to computer programming," to indicate that the person has a deep understanding and proficiency in that particular area.

It is important to be mindful of the context and audience when using this idiom. Due to its vulgar nature, it may offend or be inappropriate in certain situations. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise caution and use discretion when employing this expression.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom *know one's shit* can be used in a sentence:

  1. She really knows her shit when it comes to coding.
  2. John knows his shit about cars; he can fix anything that goes wrong.
  3. Don't worry, Sarah knows her shit as a project manager, she'll make sure everything runs smoothly.

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