is acquainted with the basics

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is acquainted with the basics" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who has a basic understanding or familiarity with a subject or topic. Example: "Before starting the advanced course, it's important that each student is acquainted with the basics of the subject matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is assumed the reader is acquainted with the general construction of general Boehmian spaces.

Advances in Difference Equations

The average rapist is acquainted with the victim.

Vice

Furthermore, the project leader is acquainted with the functioning of the multidisciplinary team running the project.

BMC Health Services Research

The family physician is acquainted with the patient for a longer time than a dietitian.

BMC Family Practice

In this case [the counsellor is acquainted with the wife] the woman came to you.

BMC International Health and Human Rights

It is important to understand these basic structures in order to be acquainted with the more complex ones presented later in the chapter.

Robotics and Biomimetics

The excavations showed that by the 3rd millennium bce Sumerian architects were acquainted with the column, the arch, the vault, and the dome i.e., with all the basic forms of architecture.

Britannica

"We're acquainted with the Under-Secretary.

The New Yorker

Most people are acquainted with the bare facts.

The Economist

Axelrod had been acquainted with the chairman of the N.J.S.O.

The New York Times - Magazine

So, not being a triad member, how did Dr. Ho come to be acquainted with the triads?

Bandung: Journal of the Global South

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "is acquainted with the basics", ensure it aligns with the context. It's best used when indicating a foundational knowledge rather than expertise. For example, "Before starting the advanced course, it's important that each student "is acquainted with the basics" of the subject matter."

Common error

Avoid using "is acquainted with the basics" when you mean to convey a deep understanding or mastery of a subject. This phrase indicates only a preliminary level of familiarity. For example, don't say "He "is acquainted with the basics" of quantum physics" if he has a PhD in the field.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is acquainted with the basics" functions as a descriptor indicating a foundational level of knowledge or familiarity. Though Ludwig provides limited specific examples, the general usage suggests it modifies a subject by outlining the extent of their knowledge on a particular subject.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is acquainted with the basics" describes a state of having foundational knowledge or familiarity with a particular subject. While Ludwig provides a limited set of examples, its structure follows conventional grammar, and therefore, is deemed correct. Use this phrase when you want to describe someone's fundamental grasp of a concept rather than advanced expertise. Consider related phrases like "knows the fundamentals" or "has a basic understanding of" to fine-tune your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

knows the fundamentals

Focuses on knowing the essential principles rather than just being familiar.

understands the basics

Emphasizes comprehension of the fundamental concepts.

is familiar with the rudiments

Uses a more formal term, 'rudiments', for basics.

has a basic understanding of

Highlights the presence of a foundational comprehension.

is conversant with the elements

Implies a comfortable familiarity with the essential components.

possesses a working knowledge of the basics

Suggests practical application of basic knowledge.

has a rudimentary grasp of

Indicates a basic, possibly incomplete, understanding.

is grounded in the essentials

Emphasizes a solid foundation in the core aspects.

is versed in the elementary aspects

Uses a more literary tone to suggest familiarity with the foundational aspects.

has exposure to the basic principles

Suggests initial contact and some level of understanding of the core principles.

FAQs

How can I use "is acquainted with the basics" in a sentence?

You can use "is acquainted with the basics" to describe someone who has a fundamental understanding of a subject. For example: "Before taking the advanced class, each student should be "familiar with the fundamentals" of programming".

What's a good alternative to "is acquainted with the basics"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "knows the fundamentals", "understands the basics", or "has a basic understanding of".

Is it better to say "is acquainted with the basics" or "knows the basics"?

"Is acquainted with the basics" and "knows the basics" are similar, but "is acquainted with the basics" suggests a lighter familiarity, while "knows the basics" implies a more solid grasp. Choose based on the level of understanding you want to convey.

When is it inappropriate to use "is acquainted with the basics"?

Avoid using "is acquainted with the basics" if you want to describe someone who is an expert or has advanced knowledge. This phrase implies only a foundational level of understanding, so it's not suitable for describing proficiency.