very familiar with

USAGE SUMMARY

"very familiar with" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to a person having a strong knowledge or experience of something. For example, "She was very familiar with the rules and regulations of the company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'm very familiar with them.

The New York Times

He's very familiar with big contracts.

The New York Times - Sports

"Oh, I'm very familiar with that.

The New York Times

Not very familiar with it?

Cornell University

I'm very familiar with it.

The Washington Post

HABERMAN: I'm very familiar with his work.

The New York Times

"He's very familiar with the system.

The New York Times - Sports

"We're very familiar with how the W.W.F.

The New York Times - Sports

We are very familiar with them.

The Guardian

"I'm very familiar with the division".

The New York Times - Sports

I am very familiar with the case.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "very familiar with", ensure the object of your familiarity is clearly defined. Avoid vague statements; be specific about what you know well.

Common error

Avoid using "very familiar with" when you only have a basic understanding. Overstating your knowledge can damage your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very familiar with" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating a high degree of knowledge or experience. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts, confirming its role in describing one's expertise or understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

23%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very familiar with" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase for expressing a high level of knowledge or experience. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Academia, and Science. When using the phrase, ensure you clearly define the subject you are familiar with and avoid overstating your actual knowledge. Alternatives like "well acquainted with" or "thoroughly conversant with" can be used for subtle variations in meaning and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

well acquainted with

Emphasizes having personal knowledge or experience; slightly more formal.

thoroughly conversant with

Indicates a deep and comprehensive understanding; more formal.

intimately knowledgeable about

Suggests a close and detailed understanding; can imply expertise.

well-versed in

Similar to deeply versed, indicating comprehensive knowledge.

conversant in

Highlights the ability to discuss something knowledgeably.

highly experienced in

Focuses on practical experience rather than just knowledge.

deeply versed in

Implies extensive study and learning; more formal.

au fait with

A more concise and slightly less common alternative, indicating awareness or familiarity.

abreast of

Focuses on staying up-to-date with current information.

comfortable with

Suggests ease and confidence in dealing with something; less about expertise.

FAQs

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

You can use "very familiar with" to describe a strong understanding or experience with something. For example, "I am very familiar with the software" or "She is very familiar with the local customs".

What are some alternatives to "very familiar with"?

You can use alternatives like "well acquainted with", "thoroughly conversant with", or "intimately knowledgeable about" depending on the context.

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

"Very familiar with" is the more common and grammatically accepted phrase. "Well familiar with" is less frequently used and may sound awkward to native English speakers.

What's the difference between "familiar with" and "very familiar with"?

"Familiar with" implies a general awareness or basic knowledge, while "very familiar with" suggests a deeper understanding and more extensive experience.