Hear of vs. hear about

Hear of

To become aware or learn that something or someone exists.

• Have you heard of that new restaurant they’re building?
• I’ve never heard of it.

Hear about

To be informed of, gain knowledge of.

• Have you heard about John’s girlfriend?
• I heard about a new restaurant downtown.

Hear of vs. hear about

• I heard of a new Spanish restaurant downtown. (I have learned that there is a new restaurant downtown)
• I heard about a new Spanish restaurant downtown. (Someone told me about this new restaurant)

Let’s practice!

Have you heard of the new English Course English Academy launched?

Yes! I heard about this course last week. A friend of mine told me.

You have never heard of Michael Jackson?

I haven’t. Who is he?

Wow, he is one of the best artists this world has ever had!