Saber vs. conocer
The Spanish verbs 'saber' and 'conocer' both mean 'to know', but they are used in different contexts depending on what kind of knowledge is being referred to.
Saber
'Saber' refers to factual knowledge, or knowing about something. This could be information or how to do something.
Yo sé que el cielo es azul.
(I know that the sky is blue.)
Ella sabe hablar francés.
(She knows how to speak French.)
¿Sabes la respuesta a esta pregunta?
(Do you know the answer to this question?)
Conocer
'Conocer' is used when referring to being familiar with people, places, or things. It's about awareness through experience or acquaintance.
Yo conozco a Maria.
(I know Maria.)
Ellos conocen bien la ciudad de Madrid.
(They know the city of Madrid well.)
¿Conoces ese libro?
(Do you know that book?)
Summary
In summary, while both 'saber' and 'conocer' translate as 'to know', they are not interchangeable. The verb 'saber' relates to knowing facts or information and 'conocer' relates to familiarity with people, places or things through personal experience.