familiarity

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "familiarity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the state of having knowledge of something through experience, or close association with it. For example: "Her familiarity with the laws enabled her to quickly find the answer to the question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mark Wood is the uncapped quickie in question and, after a month of carrying the drinks in the Caribbean, the 25-year-old is hoping raw skills trump a lack of familiarity with the home of cricket and that he is granted a Test debut by the captain, Alastair Cook, and the caretaker coach, Paul Farbrace.

The Guardian - Sport

Then there is the middle aged man who has been visiting for follow up, and thinks I am fed up of seeing him again, but doesn't realise that I secretly look forward to his cheery greeting as he energetically strides into my room greeting me with friendly familiarity by the shortened version of my first name.

The Guardian

His ability, familiarity with trade and finance, toughness in controversy - all fed belief among Conservatives that he was the man to restore them to power.

The Guardian

Do you refer to them by their full name, thus blowing any pretence of familiarity with them, or just gently drop in their first name and risk nobody having a clue who you're talking about?

The Guardian

Ive disliked the approach, although thought it was important for the first iPhone for familiarity, but didn't intervene because he was at the stage of "I don't think this is right, but I'm really busy doing my stuff".

The Guardian - Tech

The journey from war to peace has taken too long, and familiarity breeds irreverence.

The Guardian - Opinion

They had moved from comfort and familiarity to poverty and disarray within the space of a fortnight (the notice given to those who lived close to either side of the newly drawn, arguably arbitrary border).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

With immigrants as people, as distinct with immigration as a shorthand for a broad sense of happiness with today's Britain, familiarity usually breeds content, not contempt.

The Guardian - Opinion

Familiarity does breed contempt, and in every partnership you need to find ways to reinvent your interacation with each other and retain the ability to surprise.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is, according to Professor Julie Tinson of the University of Stirling, typical of a market where customers want a little more than the familiarity and consistency of the high-street shops.

The Guardian

The increasing familiarity of this century's culture with such territory (perhaps we are all gradually catching up with her) delights Smith.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "familiarity", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is familiar with. For example, specify "familiarity with the software" rather than just "familiarity".

Common error

Avoid using "familiarity" as a generic term. Instead, be specific about the type and depth of knowledge or experience. For example, instead of "his familiarity was evident", use "his deep understanding of the subject was evident".

Linguistic Context

Familiarity primarily functions as a noun, referring to the state of being familiar or well-acquainted with something. It can denote a level of understanding, knowledge, or experience. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts, from "familiarity with trade" to "familiarity with financial markets". According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Formal & Business

27%

Science

26%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "familiarity" functions as a noun to describe being well-acquainted with something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status. The phrase sees common usage in news and media, business, and scientific contexts, signaling a neutral register. Related terms include "acquaintance", "understanding", and "knowledge", each with slightly different connotations. When writing, ensure to specify what the subject is familiar with, and avoid overuse by opting for more descriptive alternatives where possible. With its versatility and clear meaning, "familiarity" is a valuable asset in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acquaintance with

Emphasizes a basic level of knowledge or awareness.

understanding of

Highlights comprehension and insight into a subject.

knowledge of

Focuses on the information and facts possessed.

experience with

Stresses practical involvement and gained expertise.

intimacy with

Indicates a close, personal connection or understanding.

close association with

Highlights the proximity and connection to something or someone.

conversance with

Implies a comfortable and proficient understanding.

awareness of

Emphasizes consciousness and recognition.

expertise in

Highlights specialized skill and knowledge.

rapport with

Focuses on the establishment of a positive connection.

FAQs

How can I use "familiarity" in a sentence?

"Familiarity" is used to describe the state of being well-acquainted with something. For example, "Her "familiarity" with the city made her an excellent tour guide".

What can I say instead of "familiarity"?

You can use alternatives like "acquaintance", "understanding", or "knowledge" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "familiarity with" or "familiarity of"?

"Familiarity with" is the correct usage when indicating knowledge or experience regarding something. "Familiarity of" is less common and often grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "familiarity" and "intimacy"?

"Familiarity" implies a level of knowledge or experience, while "intimacy" suggests a close, personal relationship or understanding. "Familiarity" can be with a subject or person, whereas "intimacy" primarily applies to relationships.