becoming more familiar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "becoming more familiar" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of gaining knowledge or comfort with something over time. Example: "As I continue to study the subject, I find myself becoming more familiar with the key concepts and theories."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

A Pew survey from September found that a majority of Americans have a favourable view of Muslims; beyond that, Americans are becoming more familiar with Islam, and as they become more familiar, their views become more favourable.

The Economist

After becoming more familiar with New York, she bought a condo at 72nd Street and Broadway.

The New York Times

"It's not just a matter of becoming more familiar with the material," he said.

The New York Times

"It's like a spark that comes and goes, becoming more familiar each time.

The New York Times - Arts

Instead of becoming more familiar, friendlier, Indians became more formal, more solemn, like foot soldiers facing generals.

The New Yorker

And so in a pattern that is becoming more familiar for the book industry, established publishers came calling.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

With the fine print of No Child Left Behind becoming more evident as schools become more familiar with the act, resentment has grown.

The New York Times

People were becoming more and more familiar with our university and our facilities.

The New York Times

As if a singer auditioning for a star role, he belted an impressive tune in what for him is becoming more and more familiar territory.

The New York Times - Sports

That stationary-camera view of the Baghdad skyline, meanwhile, was becoming more and more familiar and depressing, as we saw it now at dawn and again at midday, with plumes of smoke curling in the background or else with windblown sand whipping past.

The New York Times - Magazine

As "Staying True" reports, he was on the phone to his wife as soon as the cameras were off, and he had quite a question for her: "How'd I do?" In the weird bubble inhabited by infantilized politicians — a place that is becoming more and more familiar as their partners' and co-conspirators' memoirs come down the pike — this was not even an unreasonable question.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "becoming more familiar" when you want to describe a gradual process of gaining knowledge or understanding, rather than a sudden realization.

Common error

While "becoming more familiar" is versatile, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for stronger verbs like 'understanding', 'mastering', or 'comprehending' for a more impactful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "becoming more familiar" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a progressive aspect, indicating an ongoing process. According to Ludwig, it is a correct and usable phrase, signifying the gradual acquisition of knowledge or ease with something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

27%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "becoming more familiar" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that describes a gradual process of gaining knowledge, skill, or understanding. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts. While suitable for many situations, in more formal academic or scientific writing, stronger and more specific verbs are often preferred for a more precise tone. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and Science sources, indicating its general usability. Remember to avoid overusing it in highly formal contexts and consider stronger verbs for impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

growing more accustomed

Focuses on the process of getting used to something.

increasingly acquainted

Highlights the process of getting to know something or someone.

developing a better understanding

Emphasizes the growth of comprehension.

gaining more insight

Focuses on acquiring a deeper perspective.

getting to know better

Emphasizes the act of becoming more intimate with something.

learning the ropes

Informal, suggests learning the basics of a task or situation.

familiarizing oneself

Reflexive, indicating self-directed learning.

cultivating a deeper knowledge

Implies a deliberate effort to expand knowledge.

broadening one's horizons

Suggests exposure to new experiences and perspectives.

getting the hang of it

Informal, indicates mastering a skill.

FAQs

How can I use "becoming more familiar" in a sentence?

You can use "becoming more familiar" to describe a process of learning or habituation. For example, "As I used the software daily, I started "becoming more familiar" with its features."

What are some alternatives to "becoming more familiar"?

Alternatives include "growing more accustomed", "increasingly acquainted", or "developing a better understanding" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "become more familiar" instead of "becoming more familiar"?

Both are correct, but they have slightly different uses. "Become more familiar" suggests a shift or transition, while "becoming more familiar" implies a continuous process.

What's the difference between "becoming more familiar" and "being familiar"?

"Becoming more familiar" describes the process of learning and gaining understanding. "Being familiar" describes a state of already possessing that understanding. So, you might say "After the course, I am "being familiar" with the topic", after "becoming more familiar" with its terminology.