knew / met

[sitifan]

1. Nelson went out with the girl he knew through Aunt Lily.
2. Nelson went out with the girl he met through Aunt Lily.
Which of the above sentences is correct?

[Preceptor]

Both sentences are correct. However, there is a slight difference between the two verbs. If one says he 'met' a girl, it implies that a mere introduction was made. If one says he 'knows' a girl, it implies that he as some more background information or, perhaps, a few passing meetings with the young lady.

'I met her through...' most usually means a singe introduction.

'I know her through...' most usually means several meetings that have been facilitated or in the presence of the intermediary.

[sitifan]

1. The more I get to know the human race, the more I love my dog.
2. The more I know the human race, the more I love my dog.
#1 is supposed to be correct. Is #2 also correct?

[Preceptor]

Both are correct. The difference is that the first sentence implies a process of learning, while the second implies a certain understanding. The more sensible sentence to an American reader or listener is the first.

[5jj]

The first suggests to me that the speaker/writer does not yet really know the human race. The second suggests that they do know the human race, but are coming to know it better.

In practical terms, the difference in meaning in these sentences is insignificant.

ps. Preceptor got there first. I agree that the first is more sensible, if one has to decide.