What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
accustom
Example
It takes time to accustom oneself to a new job. [accustom: verb]
Example
The soldiers were accustoming themselves to the harsh conditions of the desert. [accustoming: gerund or present participle]
familiarize
Example
I need to familiarize myself with the new software before I can use it. [familiarize: verb]
Example
The tour guide familiarized us with the history of the city. [familiarized: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Familiarize is less common than accustom in everyday language. Accustom is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts, while familiarize is more formal and often used in academic or professional contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between accustom and familiarize?
Familiarize is more formal than accustom and is often used in academic or professional contexts. Accustom is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
