The phrase "know by rote" means to have something memorized so well that it becomes second nature. The spelling of "rote" is pronounced as /roʊt/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "o" in "rote" is pronounced as the long "o" sound, while the "e" is silent. This phrase is commonly used in educational contexts to describe the memorization of information or procedures, often without full understanding or context. It is important to note that this kind of rote learning is limited in its usefulness and can hinder more comprehensive learning.
To know something by rote means to have memorized it completely and rigidly, without necessarily understanding the underlying principles or meaning. It refers to the ability to repeat or recite information mechanically, without any real comprehension or intellectual engagement with the subject matter.
When someone knows something by rote, they have committed it to memory through repetition and can produce it without thinking or reflection. This type of learning relies heavily on memorization, often through the repeated recitation of facts, formulas, or procedures, without engaging in deeper cognitive processes such as critical thinking or analysis.
Knowing something by rote implies a surface-level familiarity with the material, lacking the ability to apply it in different contexts or explain it in different terms. It may enable a person to successfully answer questions on a test or recall information quickly, but it does not necessarily signify a deep understanding or mastery of the topic.
This type of learning is often associated with rote memorization techniques employed in traditional education, where students are required to memorize information without necessarily understanding its meaning or implications. While knowing something by rote can be useful in certain situations, it is generally seen as a superficial form of learning that does not foster true understanding or critical thinking skills.