What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unacquaintance
Example
Due to his unacquaintance with the city, he got lost on his way to the hotel. [unacquaintance: noun]
Example
I am unacquainted with the new employee, so I can't speak to their work ethic. [unacquainted: adjective]
unfamiliarity
Example
The new software program caused some initial unfamiliarity among the staff. [unfamiliarity: noun]
Example
She felt a sense of unfamiliarity when she entered the room full of strangers. [unfamiliar: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unfamiliarity is more commonly used than unacquaintance in everyday language. Unfamiliarity is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unacquaintance is less common and refers mainly to people or places.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between unacquaintance and unfamiliarity?
Both unacquaintance and unfamiliarity are considered formal words and are typically used in more serious or academic contexts.
