What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
familiarize
Example
I need to familiarize myself with the new software before I can use it. [familiarize: verb]
Example
The teacher spent the first week of class familiarizing the students with the course material. [familiarizing: gerund or present participle]
orient
Example
I need to orient myself to the new city before I can find my way around. [orient: verb]
Example
The company provided an orientation session for new employees. [orientation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Familiarize is more commonly used in academic or professional settings, while orient is more commonly used in travel or cultural contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between familiarize and orient?
Both familiarize and orient can be used in formal or informal contexts, but familiarize may be slightly more formal due to its academic or professional associations.