What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
close
Example
The store is close to my house, so it's convenient. [close: adjective]
Example
We have a close relationship with our neighbors. [close: adjective]
Example
Please close the door when you leave. [close: verb]
familiar
Example
I am familiar with this song because I've heard it many times. [familiar: adjective]
Example
That actor is very familiar to me, but I can't remember his name. [familiar: adjective]
Example
She felt familiar with her new colleagues after spending time together. [familiar: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Close is more commonly used than familiar in everyday language. Close is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while familiar is less common and is typically used to describe knowledge or recognition.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between close and familiar?
Both close and familiar can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, close is more commonly used in informal conversations, while familiar can be used in a slightly more formal tone when discussing knowledge or recognition.
