keenly aware

USAGE SUMMARY

"keenly aware" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's heightened state of attention or alertness. For example: "The CEO was keenly aware of the risks associated with such a major decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Of that I am keenly aware.

Independent

Intrexon appears keenly aware of this.

The Guardian

We were all keenly aware that parents were scaredy cats.

The New York Times

"We're keenly aware of climate change," he said.

The New York Times

Political parties are keenly aware of the stakes.

The New York Times

She is also keenly aware of youthful speech patterns.

The Economist

It made her only more keenly aware of privilege.

The New York Times

American negotiators were keenly aware of the pitfalls.

The New Yorker

The online advertising industry is keenly aware of such concerns.

The New York Times

Keenly aware of these numbers, Dr. Sroka is decidedly cheap.

The New York Times - Health

He is keenly aware that people now call him fat.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keenly aware", ensure the context provides specific details about what the subject is aware of to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "keenly aware" in overly casual settings. While grammatically correct, it can sound stilted or overly formal in everyday conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "very aware" or "well aware" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary function of "keenly aware" is to act as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating a heightened state of understanding or consciousness. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in various contexts, emphasizing its role in conveying a strong sense of awareness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keenly aware" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that indicates a heightened state of awareness or understanding. According to Ludwig, its usage is most common in news and media, as well as scientific and formal business contexts. While the phrase is appropriate for formal writing, it may be less suitable for casual conversations. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly specifies what the subject is aware of to maintain clarity and impact. Remember to consider alternatives such as "acutely conscious" or "deeply conscious" for subtle differences in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acutely conscious

Implies a sharp and immediate awareness, often of something problematic or urgent.

deeply conscious

Suggests a profound level of awareness, often related to moral or emotional issues.

highly conscious

Indicates a significant degree of awareness, focusing on the level of perception.

intensely mindful

Emphasizes a focused and concentrated awareness, often in a contemplative context.

sharply attuned

Highlights a sensitive awareness and responsiveness to subtle changes or signals.

exceedingly cognizant

Signifies a formal and extensive understanding or knowledge of something.

vividly perceptive

Implies a clear and detailed awareness, often associated with sensory experiences.

extremely discerning

Highlights the ability to notice and understand subtle differences or nuances.

profoundly familiar

Indicates a very deep and comprehensive understanding, typically gained through extensive experience.

thoroughly apprised

Suggests complete and up-to-date information, often in a formal or professional setting.

FAQs

How can I use "keenly aware" in a sentence?

"Keenly aware" indicates a strong and sensitive understanding. For example, "The negotiator was "keenly aware" of the political sensitivities involved".

What phrases are similar to "keenly aware"?

Alternatives include "acutely conscious", "deeply conscious", or "highly conscious", each with slightly different nuances.

Is "keenly aware" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "keenly aware" is appropriate for formal writing. It adds a layer of emphasis and sophistication, making it suitable for reports, essays, and professional correspondence.

What's the difference between "keenly aware" and "acutely aware"?

While both phrases indicate a high level of awareness, "acutely aware" often suggests an awareness of something negative or problematic, while "keenly aware" can apply more broadly.