general knowledge of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "general knowledge of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a broad understanding or awareness of a particular subject or field. Example: "Having a general knowledge of history can help you understand current events better."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Using those sources and her general knowledge of the field, she generated a list of candidate techniques.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

A general knowledge of meteorology is assumed.

Nature

Teacher certification requires just a general knowledge of reading.

The New York Times

Experts with only a general knowledge of his treatment suggest his prognosis is good.

The New York Times

"It is based on the general knowledge of the quality of universities and colleges.

The New York Times

"More often, it was based on a general knowledge of the person," Dr. Torke said.

The New York Times

"If you're growing anything you have to have a general knowledge of what to grow and how to grow it.

The Guardian - Money

Recommended preparation includes a general knowledge of theatre history, dramatic literature, performance theory, and theatre practice.

Columbia University

No prior knowledge of neuroanatomy required, although general knowledge of brain structures is helpful.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

All students are expected, prior to entering on their dissertation work, to develop a broad general knowledge of the discipline.

Yale University

Students are tested in English on writing skills and general knowledge of current events and historical facts.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "general knowledge of", ensure that the context clearly defines the subject area. For instance, specify "general knowledge of European history" rather than just "general knowledge" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid implying deep expertise when you only mean a basic understanding. "General knowledge of quantum physics" should not be used if your understanding is limited to popular science articles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general knowledge of" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a basic level of awareness and understanding about a particular subject or area. Ludwig examples confirm its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

35%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "general knowledge of" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes a basic level of understanding or awareness about a particular subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. Its usage spans across various domains, including science, news, and academia, indicating its versatility and broad applicability. The phrase is best used when specifying the subject area for clarity and avoiding overstatements of expertise. Alternatives such as "basic understanding of" or "familiarity with" can be used to add nuance to your writing. The authoritative sources and frequent usage patterns observed by Ludwig further validate its importance and relevance in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

general comprehension of

Focuses more on understanding rather than just awareness.

general understanding of

Similar, but slightly more focused on comprehension.

basic understanding of

Emphasizes the foundational aspect of the knowledge.

familiarity with

Highlights acquaintance and experience with a subject.

overall knowledge of

Implies a comprehensive understanding of the subject.

working knowledge of

Suggests practical application of the knowledge.

grasp of

Implies a firm and secure understanding.

awareness of

Focuses on being informed about a subject.

appreciation of

Highlights the ability to recognize and value the importance of something.

background in

Indicates prior education or experience in a field.

FAQs

How can I improve my "general knowledge of" a particular subject?

Start with introductory books, reputable online resources, and documentaries. Focus on understanding the core concepts before delving into more specialized areas.

What's the difference between "general understanding of" and "general knowledge of"?

"General knowledge of" implies familiarity with facts and information, while "general understanding of" suggests a deeper comprehension of the underlying principles and relationships within a subject.

In what contexts is "general knowledge of" most useful?

It is useful in discussions, decision-making, and learning new subjects where a foundational understanding is beneficial but detailed expertise is not required.

What are some skills that rely on a "general knowledge of" various subjects?

Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication all benefit from a broad base of knowledge. Being informed about diverse topics enhances one's ability to connect ideas and form well-reasoned opinions.