Synonyms for

Familiarity

Verb / fʌˌmɪˈljerʌti: / Another word for familiarity — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The state of being familiar with something or someone; close knowledge or relationship.

Synonyms & similar words

casualness indecorum intimacy closeness conversance impropriety unfamiliarity conversancy liberty acquaintance acquaintance knowledge proficiency expertise awareness understanding cognizance conversance intimacy relationship closeness friendliness companionship camaraderie affinity attachment fondness liking rapport ease

Synonyms by register

Formal

acquaintance cognition knowledge understanding

Informal

knowing closeness chumminess being used to it

Literary

intimacy consanguinity

Antonyms

unfamiliarity strangeness alienation novelty ignorance newness

Common collocations

  • sense of familiarity
  • familiarity breeds contempt
  • lack of familiarity
  • growing familiarity
  • initial familiarity
  • degree of familiarity
  • mutual familiarity

Word family

noun familiarity
verb familiarize
adjective familiar
adverb familiarly

Usage note

While 'familiarity' can imply a positive closeness, the common idiom 'familiarity breeds contempt' highlights its potential negative connotation of over-comfort leading to disrespect.

Example sentences

  1. I have a familiarity with this subject because I studied it last year.
  2. The dog's familiarity with the park made it comfortable to explore.
  3. After years of working together, there was a strong sense of familiarity between the coworkers.
  4. The teacher's familiarity with her students' strengths and weaknesses helped her tailor her lessons to their needs.
  5. The singer's familiarity with the song was evident in her confident performance.

Quotes

  • Familiarity breeds contempt.
  • The best way to keep one's word is not to give it.
  • Familiarity is the root of the closest friendships, as well as the deadliest enmities.

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