PoliticsAugust 11, 2026

cognisance

KOG-nuh-zuhns

Definition

Knowledge, awareness, or notice of a specific fact or situation.

Etymology

Derived from the Old French 'connoissance', which traces back to the Latin 'cognoscere', meaning 'to learn about' or 'to get to know'.

In the news

The word is used to highlight that policymakers often fail to take account of critical health and human rights information. It emphasizes the need for officials to be fully aware of the consequences their housing decisions have on vulnerable populations.

Media release: Seven ways housing policy is moving backwards on health and human rights

Read the full article ↗

Public Health Communication Centre

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