be conversant with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be conversant with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating familiarity or knowledge about a particular subject or topic. Example: "To excel in this role, you must be conversant with the latest industry trends and technologies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

You should, however, be conversant with modern American art history.

The New York Times - Arts

"You also have to be conversant with the new media world.

The New York Times

They should also be conversant with the full spectrum of current thinking in their fields.

Harvard Business Review

You need to be conversant with analytical terminology and methods and able to work with quantitative information.

Harvard Business Review

But each year brings a new batch of artists who want to be conversant with the fire, Mr. Dehnert said.

The New York Times

So I had this constellation of narrative elements, some of which I sensed might be conversant with contemporary Havana.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

He was conversant with Chinese culture, at least up to a point.

The New York Times - Arts

Dating from 1977, they are conversant with Postminimalism and Process art but feel, somehow, more private.

The New York Times - Arts

They would nevertheless have been conversant with Puck's mocking, shape-changing, potion-spreading ways.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Another selling point is that I am conversant with US laws and regulations.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The quintessential 19th-century English gentleman-scholar, Talbot was conversant with science, mathematics, botany, linguistics and the classics.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be conversant with" when you want to emphasize a good level of familiarity and the ability to discuss a topic intelligently, making sure the context matches the implied expertise.

Common error

Avoid using "be conversant with" if your knowledge is superficial. Overstating your expertise can damage your credibility; instead, opt for phrases like "be familiar with" or "have some knowledge of" if you only possess a basic understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be conversant with" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the subject's state of being knowledgeable and articulate on a particular subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable and correct. This indicates an ability to engage in informed discussion, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Academia

28%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be conversant with" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a state of being well-informed and capable of discussing a particular subject intelligently. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its proper use implies a level of expertise beyond basic familiarity. While it finds frequent usage across diverse sources, particularly in News & Media, Academia, and Science, it is important to consider its register as it tends to be more appropriate for formal or professional communication. Consider the alternative phrases provided to fine-tune the expression based on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be familiar with

Indicates a general understanding or awareness, less emphasis on expertise compared to "be conversant with".

be knowledgeable about

Highlights the possession of facts and information, focusing on the cognitive aspect of knowing.

be well-versed in

Implies a thorough and comprehensive knowledge, suggesting a higher level of expertise.

be acquainted with

Suggests a basic level of knowledge or awareness, often implying an introduction to the subject.

be proficient in

Focuses on skill and competence in a particular area, rather than just theoretical knowledge.

have a grasp of

Indicates a clear and thorough understanding, emphasizing comprehension and insight.

have a working knowledge of

Implies practical understanding and ability to use the knowledge in a functional way.

be up-to-date on

Highlights current awareness and familiarity with the latest developments in a field.

be informed about

Simply means having information, without necessarily implying deep understanding or expertise.

be attuned to

Suggests a sensitivity and awareness of subtle nuances and changes within a particular area.

FAQs

How can I use "be conversant with" in a sentence?

Use "be conversant with" to indicate a state of being well-informed and able to discuss something intelligently. For example, "A good historian must "be conversant with" primary source materials".

What are some alternatives to "be conversant with"?

Alternatives include "be familiar with", "be acquainted with", or "be knowledgeable about", depending on the desired level of formality and the depth of knowledge you want to convey.

Is "be conversant with" formal or informal?

"Be conversant with" leans towards the formal side. In informal contexts, consider using simpler alternatives like "know about" or "be up to speed on".

What's the difference between "be familiar with" and "be conversant with"?

"Be familiar with" suggests a general awareness or basic understanding, whereas "be conversant with" implies a more in-depth knowledge and the ability to discuss a topic intelligently. To "be conversant with" something indicates a higher level of expertise than simply "be familiar with" it.