a keen knowledge of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a keen knowledge of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong or deep understanding of a particular subject or area. Example: "Her success in the field is largely due to her keen knowledge of market trends and consumer behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 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

48 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

Cunningham's job is not so different from a fisherman's: it requires a keen knowledge, honed over years, of the local ecosystem and infinite patience in all manner of weather conditions.

The New Yorker

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a keen knowledge of", ensure the subject of your sentence clearly benefits from that knowledge. For example, "Her success is due to her keen knowledge of market trends."

Common error

Avoid using "a keen knowledge of" when describing basic familiarity or simple awareness. Reserve it for situations where deep understanding and insight are evident. For instance, it's better to say "He has a basic understanding of computers" rather than "He has a keen knowledge of computers" if he only knows the fundamentals.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a keen knowledge of" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig examples show it defining the specific area of expertise or understanding.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a keen knowledge of" is a phrase used to emphasize a deep and insightful understanding of a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not extremely common, the phrase is frequently found in news, academic, and professional contexts. To use it effectively, ensure that the context warrants highlighting a significant level of expertise rather than just basic familiarity. Alternatives like "profound understanding" or "extensive expertise" can provide nuanced variations depending on the specific meaning you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a profound understanding of

Emphasizes depth and insight rather than just awareness.

an extensive expertise in

Highlights specialized skill and practical experience.

a comprehensive grasp of

Stresses a complete and thorough understanding.

a deep familiarity with

Implies a personal and intimate acquaintance with the subject.

a sharp awareness of

Focuses on acute perception and attentiveness.

a well-honed command of

Highlights a skill that has been refined through practice.

an expert comprehension of

Stresses the ability to thoroughly understand complex issues.

a nuanced appreciation for

Implies a subtle and sophisticated understanding.

a thorough grounding in

Highlights a solid and foundational understanding.

a strong competence in

Highlights a practical and effective level of skill.

FAQs

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

Use "a keen knowledge of" to highlight someone's deep and insightful understanding in a specific field. For example, "The company's success was attributable to the CEO's "a keen knowledge of" international markets".

What are some alternatives to "a keen knowledge of"?

Alternatives include phrases like "profound understanding of", "extensive expertise in", or "comprehensive grasp of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "a" before "keen knowledge"?

Yes, it's generally necessary to use the indefinite article "a" before "keen knowledge" unless you're using it in a context where the knowledge is already defined or specific (which is rare). For example: "Possessing keen knowledge is essential for success."

What is the difference between "a keen knowledge of" and "a keen interest in"?

"A keen knowledge of" implies a deep understanding and expertise, while "a keen interest in" suggests a strong enthusiasm and curiosity. Knowledge involves comprehension and mastery, while interest involves desire to learn more.