What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
familiar
Example
I find this song very familiar. [familiar: adjective]
Example
He looked familiar, but I couldn't remember where I had seen him before. [familiar: adjective]
Example
I am familiar with the city since I have lived here for many years. [familiar: preposition]
recognizable
Example
The logo is easily recognizable even from a distance. [recognizable: adjective]
Example
Her voice is very recognizable, I could tell it was her on the phone. [recognizable: adjective]
Example
The smell of freshly baked bread is very recognizable. [recognizable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Familiar is more common than recognizable in everyday language and can be used in various contexts. Recognizable is less common and is mainly used in formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between familiar and recognizable?
Recognizable is more formal than familiar and is mainly used in academic, scientific, or technical writing. Familiar is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
