intimate with

USAGE SUMMARY

'intimate with' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use the phrase to describe a close relationship between two people or to express familiarity with a particular subject or situation. For example, "She was very intimate with her best friend, sharing her deepest secrets."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Huffington Post

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Intimate with Grenville?" she said.

The New York Times - Arts

I've become quite intimate with that sweater".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Gradually you become intimate with the leader.

The Guardian

Intimate with both subject and viewer, he dissolves emotional distances.

The New Yorker

I could be physically intimate with unattainable things.

The New York Times

I began to feel intimate with these streets.

The New Yorker

* * * "I have not managed to become intimate with anyone here.

The New Yorker

Nowhere else are projects so intimate with their execution.

The New York Times

One character talks of being "intimate with immensity".

The Economist

But, most remarkably, Greaves also gets intimate with the money.

The New Yorker

"It's intimate with delicious food," they were quoted as saying.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intimate with", ensure that the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to emotional closeness, physical intimacy, or familiarity with a subject. This will help avoid ambiguity and ensure your message is accurately conveyed.

Common error

Avoid using "intimate with" when a less intense term like "familiar with" or "acquainted with" would be more appropriate. Overstating the level of closeness can sound awkward or insincere, especially in professional or formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intimate with" typically functions as an adjective phrase followed by a preposition, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe a close or familiar relationship. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Wiki

10%

Huffington Post

9%

Less common in

TechCrunch

3%

The Guardian

3%

The New Yorker

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intimate with" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a close relationship, deep understanding, or detailed familiarity. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it is versatile and applicable across various contexts. While it is most frequently found in News & Media, it also appears in Wiki and blog content. When using this phrase, ensure the context clarifies the intended meaning—whether referring to emotional closeness, physical intimacy, or familiarity with a subject—to avoid any ambiguity. Alternatives like "close to" or "familiar with" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

having a deep connection with

This suggests a significant emotional or spiritual bond, focusing on depth rather than familiarity.

sharing a close bond with

This conveys a strong and affectionate relationship, emphasizing the mutual connection.

close to

This alternative conveys a general sense of nearness or affection, but it is less intense than "intimate with".

familiar with

This suggests a good understanding or knowledge of something, rather than a personal connection.

having a personal relationship with

This emphasizes the relational aspect and suggests a level of personal investment.

acquainted with

This implies a formal or superficial level of knowledge or interaction.

deeply involved in

This emphasizes a strong engagement and investment, whether emotional or practical.

friendly with

This describes a positive and amicable relationship, without necessarily implying deep emotional connection.

personally involved with

This indicates a direct participation or engagement, but lacks the emotional undertones of "intimate with".

well-versed in

This focuses on knowledge and expertise, removing the relational aspect of intimacy.

FAQs

How can I use "intimate with" in a sentence?

You can use "intimate with" to describe a close relationship, as in "She is very "intimate with" her sister" or to express familiarity with a subject, such as "He is "intimate with" the details of the project".

What are some alternatives to "intimate with"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "close to", "familiar with", or "having a deep connection with".

Is "intimate with" only used to describe relationships?

No, "intimate with" can also describe a deep understanding or familiarity with a subject or topic. For example, one might be ""intimate with" the local customs" or ""intimate with" the workings of the engine".

What is the difference between "familiar with" and "intimate with"?

"Familiar with" suggests a general understanding or knowledge, while ""intimate with"" implies a deeper, more personal connection or understanding. For instance, you might be "familiar with" a city's layout, but ""intimate with"" its hidden history.