very familiar

USAGE SUMMARY

"very familiar" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are describing a situation or thing that you are already familiar with or have encountered many times before. Example: I was very familiar with the landmarks in my hometown, so it didn't take me long to find my way around.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Very familiar.

The Guardian - Books

Familiar face — very familiar.

The New Yorker

"I'm very familiar with them.

The New York Times

So clubs seem very familiar.

Independent

Those spats are very familiar.

The New York Times - Sports

It's very familiar," he said.

The New York Times

Something looked very familiar.

The New York Times

(Hint: it's very familiar).

The New York Times - Arts

It's a very familiar picture.

Yale University

Not very familiar with it?

Cornell University

Dr. Swiston looks very familiar.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very familiar" to describe your level of understanding or experience with a subject, place, or person to provide context and establish your credibility or perspective.

Common error

Avoid overusing "very familiar" in close proximity within your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "well-acquainted", "conversant", or "knowledgeable" to maintain reader engagement and showcase a broader vocabulary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very familiar" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a high degree of knowledge, awareness, or recognition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adjective phrase "very familiar" is grammatically correct and widely used in English to express a strong degree of knowledge or recognition. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and provides numerous examples across various contexts, primarily in News & Media and Academic writing. While versatile, it's advisable to use synonyms to avoid repetition and maintain reader engagement. This guide provides practical tips and related phrases to enhance your writing using "very familiar" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

well acquainted

Indicates a strong level of familiarity and personal knowledge.

closely acquainted

Implies a personal relationship that leads to familiarity.

intimately acquainted

Emphasizes a deep and personal level of familiarity.

thoroughly conversant

Highlights a comprehensive understanding and knowledge.

well versed

Similar to thoroughly conversant, suggesting deep knowledge.

entirely conversant

Stresses complete and comprehensive knowledge.

deeply aware

Indicates a profound understanding and familiarity with a concept.

quite knowledgeable

Emphasizes expertise and deep familiarity.

highly experienced

Suggests familiarity through extensive practical engagement.

widely known

Indicates that something is familiar to many people.

FAQs

How can I use "very familiar" in a sentence?

You can use "very familiar" to describe your experience or knowledge of something, like in the sentence, "I am "very familiar" with the software, having used it for five years".

What are some alternatives to "very familiar"?

Some alternatives include "well acquainted", "thoroughly conversant", or "highly experienced", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "familiar" or "very familiar"?

It depends on the degree of your familiarity. "Familiar" indicates a basic awareness, while "very familiar" suggests a deep or extensive understanding. Choose the option that best represents your actual level of knowledge.

When is it appropriate to use "very familiar" in writing?

Use "very familiar" when you want to emphasize a strong level of understanding, experience, or knowledge about a particular subject or topic. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts but ensure it accurately reflects your actual familiarity.