a firm knowledge of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a firm knowledge of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's strong understanding or expertise in a particular subject or area. Example: "To excel in this field, you need to have a firm knowledge of the fundamental principles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

His mother, Heather, who was born into a Brooklyn working-class household of Jewish Communists, is a highly cultured eccentric, with a firm knowledge of classical music and Russian literature (Liev is named after Tolstoy).

The New Yorker

Youngsters are sometimes promoted to the next grade without a firm knowledge of any of the basics, and as long as they are pushed ahead, most everyone seems happy.

The New York Times

Mr. Cavanaugh, who was a frequent contributor to The New York Times, has a firm knowledge of the fight game, and his description of Tunney's 10-round upset in Philadelphia crackles.

The New York Times

Mr. O'Day is no disciple of City Ballet's founding father, George Balanchine, although he has a firm knowledge of the classical idiom and uses it with a welcome brashness.

The New York Times - Arts

But it also meant a firm knowledge of prior demand.

Forbes

A large lecture course that provides students from any background with a firm knowledge of the mechanisms of evolution.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

I came away from this engrossing equine experience with a firmer knowledge of what goes into the fine and exacting art of horse breeding.

Huffington Post

Being a comparatively new approach to coastal management, this increased usage has occurred against a background of little firm knowledge of the longer term impacts.

Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science

In this work we present a study of the structural changes occurring in various AlN/Ag multilayers after LA, in an effort to establish firm knowledge of the diffusion and re-nucleation mechanisms that occur during the laser process.

Surface and Coatings Technology

The stadium is fine, and I speak with the firm knowledge of a fan who traces his life's journey as a progression from the depths of the black hole in the lower end zone to my current glorious perch in the front row of the fifty-yard line in the club level.

Huffington Post

The lack of firm knowledge of original context makes the precise interpretation of individual passages difficult.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's qualifications or skills, use "a firm knowledge of" to emphasize a solid understanding and competence in a particular subject. For example, "The candidate demonstrated a firm knowledge of data analysis techniques".

Common error

Avoid using "a firm knowledge of" when the understanding is basic or superficial. Using stronger language like this implies a deep, reliable understanding that should be accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a firm knowledge of" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, indicating the quality or extent of knowledge possessed. As noted by Ludwig AI, this usage is grammatically correct and found in various reliable sources.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a firm knowledge of" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a deep and reliable understanding of a subject. As Ludwig AI indicates, it appears across various reputable sources, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. While interchangeable with phrases like "a solid understanding of" or "a strong grasp of", "a firm knowledge of" conveys a sense of expertise that is frequently sought after in academic and professional environments. When using this phrase, ensure that the depth of understanding aligns with the claim being made to avoid overstatement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a solid understanding of

Focuses on comprehension being complete and reliable.

a strong grasp of

Emphasizes control and command over the subject matter.

a deep understanding of

Highlights the extensive and thorough nature of the comprehension.

a comprehensive understanding of

Stresses the breadth and completeness of knowledge.

a thorough knowledge of

Similar to "deep understanding", indicating detailed familiarity.

extensive knowledge of

Focuses on the breadth and scope of the knowledge.

expertise in

Highlights specialized skill or technical knowledge.

proficiency in

Emphasizes competence and skill in a particular area.

mastery of

Indicates a high level of skill and control over a subject.

familiarity with

Highlights a good level of acquaintance and understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "a firm knowledge of" in a sentence?

Use "a firm knowledge of" to describe someone's expertise or strong understanding in a specific area. For example, "Success in this role requires a firm knowledge of project management principles."

What can I say instead of "a firm knowledge of"?

You can use alternatives such as "a solid understanding of", "a strong grasp of", or "a deep understanding of", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a firm knowledge of" or "a good knowledge of"?

"A firm knowledge of" implies a more solid and reliable understanding than "a good knowledge of". Use "a firm knowledge of" when you want to emphasize expertise or a deep understanding.

What's the difference between "a firm knowledge of" and "expertise in"?

"Expertise in" suggests a higher level of skill and practical application than "a firm knowledge of", which mainly focuses on the depth of understanding. Expertise often comes with experience.