are familiar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are familiar" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone has knowledge or experience with something or someone. Example: "The team members are familiar with the new software we are implementing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

These are familiar categories.

Independent

These are familiar insinuations.

The New York Times

Zombies are familiar territory".

Independent

These dynamics are familiar.

The New Yorker

Some reasons are familiar.

The Economist

The individual stories are familiar.

The New York Times

Separately, their stories are familiar.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

This is familiar ground.

The Economist

The dance is familiar.

The New York Times

The phenomenon is familiar.

The New Yorker

Much was familiar.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are familiar", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the subject is familiar with. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the object of familiarity.

Common error

Avoid using "are familiar" without a clear object. For example, instead of saying "They are familiar", specify "They are familiar with the process" to provide clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are familiar" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state of a subject as being known, acquainted, or well-versed. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

91%

Wiki

3%

Academia

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are familiar" is a versatile predicate adjective indicating knowledge or experience. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and widespread use, particularly in neutral contexts like News & Media. While semantically similar alternatives such as "are acquainted with" and "have knowledge of" exist, choosing the best fit depends on the intended nuance. When using "are familiar", ensure you specify what the subject is familiar with to avoid ambiguity. This phrase is a staple in both formal and informal communication, making it an essential element of English vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are acquainted with

This alternative emphasizes a degree of knowledge or experience with something.

have knowledge of

Focuses on possessing information about a particular subject.

are conversant with

This suggests a proficient understanding and ability to discuss something.

are well-versed in

Implies extensive knowledge and experience in a specific area.

have experience with

Highlights practical involvement and learning through direct engagement.

are no strangers to

Indicates that someone has encountered something before, often something challenging.

are accustomed to

Suggests that something is usual or habitual for someone.

recognize

A simpler verb focusing on the ability to identify something known.

are aware of

Emphasizes consciousness and understanding of a particular fact or situation.

have a grasp of

Indicates a solid understanding and control of a subject or concept.

FAQs

How to use "are familiar" in a sentence?

You can use "are familiar" to indicate knowledge or experience with something. For example, "The students "are familiar" with the works of Shakespeare", or "The developers "are familiar" with the Python programming language".

What can I say instead of "are familiar"?

You can use alternatives like "are acquainted with", "have knowledge of", or "are conversant with" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "are familiar with" or "are familiar to"?

"Are familiar with" is typically used when someone has experience or knowledge of something. "Are familiar to" is used when something is easily recognized or known. For example, "They "are familiar with" the software" versus "His face "is familiar to" me".

What's the difference between "are familiar" and "are acquainted"?

While both imply knowledge, "are familiar" suggests a deeper understanding or more extensive experience than "are acquainted". You might be acquainted with someone you've met briefly, but familiar with someone you know well.