künnis

Künnis is a term that appears in a small set of linguistic and philosophical discussions. There is no universally accepted definition, and its interpretation varies across authors and contexts. The spelling with an umlaut or diaeresis suggests an origin outside standard English, though the precise etymology is uncertain.

In some usages, künnis is described as tacit or embodied knowledge—understanding that is learned through practice, social interaction, and immersion in a community rather than through formal instruction. In others, it is framed as a capacity or readiness to act within particular situations, closely aligned with practical competence or know-how.

The term is considered obscure and primarily encountered in niche writings, glossaries, or discussions of knowledge transfer. Because of its limited attestation, many scholars prefer established terms such as tacit knowledge, know-how, or practical competence, and they warn against overgeneralizing from a few early uses of künnis. Some authors emphasize contextual and cultural nuances of the concept, arguing that its meaning depends on social norms, apprenticeship structures, and linguistic framing.

See also: tacit knowledge, know-how, competence, embodied knowledge.