Conversant: meaning, definitions and examples

🗣️
Add to dictionary

conversant

 

[kənˈvɜːsənt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in communication

Familiar or knowledgeable about a particular subject or field; able to talk with others in a knowledgeable and intelligent way.

Synonyms

acquainted, familiar, knowledgeable, versed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
conversant

Used to describe someone who is knowledgeable about or experienced in a particular subject or field.

  • She is conversant with several programming languages.
  • He is highly conversant in ancient history.
knowledgeable

Used to describe someone who has a deep and extensive understanding of a particular subject.

  • She is very knowledgeable about classical music.
  • They found him to be knowledgeable on various topics during the interview.
acquainted

Used when someone has a basic understanding or has met someone or something for the first time.

  • I am acquainted with the new software, but I still need some practice.
  • She got acquainted with her new colleagues at the team meeting.
versed

Used to describe someone who is skilled and experienced in a particular field or activity.

  • She is well-versed in digital marketing strategies.
  • He is quite versed in financial matters.
familiar

Used to talk about someone who knows something or someone well, or when something is well-known and easily recognizable.

  • He is familiar with the company's policies.
  • The tune was familiar to everyone.

Examples of usage

  • He is conversant in several languages.
  • She is conversant with the latest developments in the industry.
  • They need someone who is conversant with the local customs and traditions.
  • I became conversant with the new software after a brief training session.
  • The manager is conversant with the company policies and procedures.
Context #2 | Noun

in communication

A person who is familiar or knowledgeable about a particular subject or field.

Synonyms

authority, expert, professional, specialist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
conversant

Use this word when someone is familiar with or knowledgeable about a specific subject, though not necessarily an expert.

  • She is conversant with the latest trends in technology.
  • He is conversant in French.
expert

This word is appropriate when someone has a deep, extensive knowledge or skill in a particular area. Often used to highlight a high level of competence.

  • She is an expert in computer programming.
  • The team consulted an expert to solve the problem.
specialist

Use 'specialist' for someone who has concentrated knowledge or skills in a very specific subset of a broader field, often due to extensive study and practice.

  • She is a specialist in pediatric medicine.
  • They hired a marketing specialist to improve their online presence.
professional

This term is used for someone who is skilled and qualified in a specific job, often indicating formal training or certification. It is also used to describe someone who earns their living in a specific field.

  • He is a professional photographer.
  • She handled the situation in a very professional manner.
authority

Use 'authority' when referring to someone who is widely recognized as an expert and has a high level of knowledge or control in a particular field.

  • Dr. Smith is an authority on ancient Roman history.
  • The professor is an authority in the field of quantum physics.

Examples of usage

  • He is a conversant in the field of computer science.
  • She is a conversant in the world of finance.
  • They consulted a conversant to get expert advice.
  • The company hired a conversant to help with the project.
  • The conversant provided valuable insights into the issue.

Translations

Translations of the word "conversant" in other languages:

🇵🇹 conversante

🇮🇳 बातचीत करने वाला

🇩🇪 gesprächig

🇮🇩 berbicara

🇺🇦 розмовний

🇵🇱 rozmowny

🇯🇵 会話の上手な

🇫🇷 conversant

🇪🇸 conversador

🇹🇷 konuşkan

🇰🇷 대화에 능통한

🇸🇦 متحدث

🇨🇿 hovorný

🇸🇰 hovorný

🇨🇳 健谈的

🇸🇮 govoreč

🇮🇸 málglöggur

🇰🇿 әңгімешіл

🇬🇪 მოლაპარაკე

🇦🇿 danışıq qabiliyyətli

🇲🇽 conversador

Etymology

The word 'conversant' originates from the Latin word 'conversari', which means 'to associate with'. It first appeared in English in the late 16th century. Over the years, 'conversant' has evolved to describe someone who is knowledgeable or familiar with a particular subject or field, emphasizing the ability to communicate effectively. The term has gained popularity in academic and professional contexts, highlighting the importance of being well-versed in specific areas of expertise.

See also: conversation, conversationalist, conversed, conversely, conversing.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,391, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.