broad knowledge of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broad knowledge of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who has extensive understanding or familiarity with a particular subject or field. Example: "Her broad knowledge of environmental science makes her an invaluable asset to our research team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Patelson stayed up late pricing inventory and had a broad knowledge of music.

The New York Times

Walerstein was a general internist, admired for his broad knowledge of medicine.

The New York Times - Magazine

They have got to have broad knowledge of how stores work, as well as online sales".

The Guardian - Business

Melanchthon's broad knowledge of Scripture, theology, history, and linguistics is evident in it.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Another person with broad knowledge of Chinese financial policy making described the plans as "a done deal".

The New York Times

That meant hiring critics with sharp opinions, broad knowledge of fields other than poetry, and some flair".

The New Yorker

He emphasized Mr. Steel's broad knowledge of financial services and discounted his lack of consumer banking experience.

The New York Times

He answered all five questions in the "Olympics" category correctly, winning $3,000 and displaying broad knowledge of sports history.

The New York Times

His personality was nourished by a broad knowledge of the arts and was also stimulated by learning and scholarship.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Despite broad knowledge of the status of gays there, America's immigration agency still resists granting asylum to gay Jamaicans.

The Economist

One prospective customer who met DeHaven last year described him as a small, slightly-built man, who wore glasses and had broad knowledge of Pakistani politics.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to showcase expertise, use "broad knowledge of" to signal familiarity with a range of concepts within a field. For instance, "a broad knowledge of environmental regulations" is essential for effective environmental policy.

Common error

Avoid using "broad knowledge of" when you actually mean deep or specialized expertise in a narrower field. Ensure that "breadth" accurately reflects the wide-ranging nature of the knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad knowledge of" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, typically describing the extent of someone's understanding or expertise in a particular subject. As evidenced by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "broad knowledge of" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe a general familiarity with a wide range of topics within a specific field. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to science and professional settings. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects the breadth of knowledge you intend to convey, and consider alternatives like "extensive understanding of" or "comprehensive grasp of" for nuanced meanings. Avoid confusing breadth with depth and always use "of" rather than "in".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extensive understanding of

Focuses on the depth and scope of comprehension rather than just the breadth of information.

comprehensive grasp of

Emphasizes a thorough and complete understanding, highlighting the ability to seize and retain information effectively.

wide-ranging expertise in

Highlights practical skills and proficiency across a diverse set of areas.

deep familiarity with

Suggests a close and intimate understanding, implying long-term exposure and experience.

vast command of

Implies a high level of control and mastery over a wide field of information.

considerable acquaintance with

Indicates a good level of familiarity without necessarily implying deep expertise.

general awareness of

Suggests a basic level of understanding across many topics, but not necessarily in-depth knowledge.

well-versed in

Describes someone who is knowledgeable and articulate about a particular subject.

conversant with

Implies a comfortable familiarity and ability to discuss a topic intelligently.

encyclopedic knowledge of

Suggests an extremely wide and comprehensive understanding, akin to that of an encyclopedia.

FAQs

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

You can use "broad knowledge of" to describe someone's familiarity with a variety of topics within a specific field. For example, "The candidate demonstrated a "broad knowledge of" environmental science and policy".

What are some alternatives to "broad knowledge of"?

Alternatives include "extensive understanding of", "comprehensive grasp of", or "wide-ranging expertise in depending" on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "broad knowledge in" or "broad knowledge of"?

"Broad knowledge of" is the correct and idiomatic usage. "Broad knowledge in" is not typically used and may sound awkward to native English speakers.

What's the difference between "broad knowledge of" and "detailed knowledge of"?

"Broad knowledge of" implies a general familiarity across many areas, while "detailed knowledge of" suggests a deep understanding of specific aspects within a field. They represent different levels and scopes of expertise.