become familiar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become familiar" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the process of gaining knowledge or understanding about something over time. Example: "As I spent more time in the city, I began to become familiar with its culture and traditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

THE routine has become familiar.

The Economist

Rampages of this sort have become familiar.

The New York Times - Arts

By 1914, photography had become familiar.

The New Yorker

Become familiar with jiggers.

WikiHow

Become familiar with it.

WikiHow

Become familiar with ingredients.

WikiHow

Become familiar with MediaWiki.

WikiHow

Become familiar with ETS.

WikiHow

Become familiar with them.

WikiHow

Become familiar with terminology.

WikiHow

Become familiar with trigonometry.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "become familiar", ensure you specify what the subject is becoming familiar with. This provides clarity and context to your writing.

Common error

While "become familiar" is generally acceptable, overuse in formal writing can make it sound less sophisticated. Consider stronger verbs like "master", "comprehend", or "grasp" for enhanced impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become familiar" functions as a linking verb followed by an adjective, indicating a process of transition into a state of knowledge or understanding. This is demonstrated by Ludwig, which indicates correct and usable form.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Wiki

67%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "become familiar" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the process of gaining knowledge or understanding. Ludwig indicates it's usable in written English, although it appears more frequently in informal contexts like WikiHow than in formal academic or scientific writing. When using this phrase, ensure the object of familiarity is clearly specified. While acceptable, consider stronger verbs in formal writing for a more sophisticated tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get acquainted with

Focuses on the initial stage of getting to know something.

become conversant with

Implies gaining a level of expertise or fluency.

familiarize oneself with

A more formal and reflexive way of saying "become familiar".

get used to

Highlights the process of adaptation and acceptance.

develop a knowledge of

Emphasizes the active development of understanding.

gain insight into

Focuses on acquiring a deeper understanding.

grow accustomed to

Suggests a gradual process of becoming comfortable with something.

learn the ropes

An idiomatic expression referring to learning the basics.

become well-versed in

Indicates a high level of proficiency and knowledge.

get the hang of

Informal way to describe the action of learning how to do something.

FAQs

How can I use "become familiar" in a sentence?

You can use "become familiar" to describe the process of learning or getting to know something well. For example, "I need to "become familiar" with the new software before I can use it effectively."

What are some alternatives to "become familiar"?

Some alternatives to "become familiar" include "get acquainted with", "familiarize oneself with", or "get used to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "become familiar with" or "familiarize with"?

"Become familiar with" is generally preferred and more common. "Familiarize" is a verb that often takes a reflexive pronoun (e.g., "familiarize yourself with").

What's the difference between "become familiar" and "become accustomed"?

"Become familiar" implies gaining knowledge or understanding, while "become accustomed" suggests adapting to or getting used to something. For instance, you might "become familiar" with a new culture, and "become accustomed" to its customs.