This usage of "know" is a direct translation from the Hebrew Bible.
I am not certain, but I don't think this usage occurs in other European languages--certainly not in the modern translations in use today.
There's only one trace of this Biblical expression in modern English. It's the expression "carnal knowledge", which means "sexual intercourse." It's now mainly a legal time.
regards
edward
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dr. Jamshid Ibrahim  The English verb know can mean having sexual intercourse as in:
Adam knew Eve. My questions:
1. Is this meaning a direct translation from the Bible because the Hebrew verb implies having sex?
2. Does it lie in the nature of such a verb?
3. Does a verb like know exist in other languages (having additionally this meaning)?
4. Can know be used in English in other contexts apart from Adam and Eve? |