a keen knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

'a keen knowledge' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a kind of knowledge or understanding that is deep and comprehensive. For example, "The student demonstrated a keen knowledge of the material in the final exam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Mr. Fletcher had a keen knowledge of the sport's history.

The New York Times - Sports

Somebody with a keen knowledge of gamesmanship knows exactly how Hollywood's games are played.

The New York Times - Books

But the trait these groups share is a keen knowledge of how to eat nutritiously without damaging the ecosystem.

The Guardian

"The Chinese are good at execution, but weak on problem-solving, and lack a keen knowledge of the business as well".

The New York Times

A keen knowledge of human psychology gained by continuous observation of boardroom interactions is invaluable in keeping emotions in check and the focus of the discussion on topic.

Harvard Business Review

Understanding Public Perception At the heart of the value determination process for both traders and fantasy owners is a keen knowledge of public perception.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

We came to understand that making the scenarios relevant required a keener knowledge of decision makers and their microcosm than we had ever imagined.

Harvard Business Review

Sotomayor has been widely admired by her colleagues as a judge with a sophisticated understanding of legal doctrine, but also as a judge who has keen knowledge of how laws and courts impact every-day lives.

Huffington Post

He presented the emaciated body of his St. Jerome (unfinished; begun 1480) in a sobering light, imbuing it with a realism that stemmed from his keen knowledge of anatomy; Leonardo's mastery of gesture and facial expression gave his Jerome an unrivalled expression of transfigured sorrow.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We bring the experience and authenticity of producing superb rums and he injects a level of excitement, glamour and keen knowledge of high end cocktail consumers.

Forbes

What we glean instead is a keen structural knowledge wedded to an environmental sensitivity — a seamless bond of nature, space and humankind.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a keen knowledge" to highlight a deep and comprehensive understanding of a subject, especially when emphasizing its practical application or value.

Common error

Avoid using "a keen knowledge" when a simpler term like "understanding" or "awareness" would suffice. Reserve it for situations where the depth and sophistication of the knowledge are truly noteworthy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a keen knowledge" functions as a noun phrase that describes a particular quality of knowledge. It is often used to emphasize the depth, sharpness, and applicability of someone's understanding. Ludwig confirms that this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

19%

Science

16%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a keen knowledge" is a grammatically sound and relatively common phrase used to describe a profound and insightful understanding of a subject. As Ludwig confirms, its usage spans various contexts, including news, academia, and business, with a neutral to formal register. While it's important not to overuse it in simple contexts, it effectively highlights expertise and understanding. Consider alternatives like "profound understanding" or "extensive knowledge" to add variety to your writing. Overall, "a keen knowledge" remains a valuable phrase for emphasizing the depth and quality of one's understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a profound understanding

Emphasizes depth and insight rather than just awareness.

a deep understanding

Highlights the thoroughness and comprehensiveness of knowledge.

an extensive knowledge

Stresses the breadth and scope of the knowledge.

a comprehensive understanding

Indicates a complete and thorough grasp of the subject.

a thorough grasp

Focuses on the ability to apply knowledge effectively.

a sophisticated understanding

Implies an advanced and nuanced comprehension.

a refined understanding

Indicates that knowledge has been carefully developed and polished.

a sharp insight

Emphasizes the ability to quickly and accurately understand complex issues.

an expert command

Focuses on mastery of a subject or skill.

a familiarity with

Indicates being acquainted or conversant with a particular subject or area.

FAQs

How can I use "a keen knowledge" in a sentence?

You can use "a keen knowledge" to describe someone's deep understanding of a subject. For example, "The historian demonstrated "a keen knowledge" of ancient civilizations".

What are some alternatives to "a keen knowledge"?

Some alternatives include "a profound understanding", "a deep understanding", or "an extensive knowledge", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a keen knowledge" or "deep knowledge"?

"A keen knowledge" and "deep knowledge" are similar, but "a keen knowledge" suggests not only depth but also an active and insightful application of that knowledge. "Deep knowledge" simply implies thoroughness.

How does "a keen knowledge" differ from "a keen interest"?

"A keen interest" implies a strong enthusiasm and curiosity, whereas "a keen knowledge" implies a developed and comprehensive understanding. You can have "a keen interest" in something without having "a keen knowledge" of it, and vice versa.