au fait

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The phrase "au fait" is a French term that is often used in English. It is an adjective that means being knowledgeable, well-informed, or up to date on a particular subject or situation. When someone is "au fait" with something, it means they are familiar with it and aware of the latest developments.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "au fait" when talking about someone's knowledge or awareness of a certain topic.
• It is often used in more formal contexts or discussions.

Example:

• "She is au fait with the latest research in climate science." (This means she is knowledgeable about the most recent studies and findings in climate science.)

Advanced Usage:

• In professional or academic settings, you might say, "The lawyer is au fait with the recent changes in the law." (This indicates that the lawyer is updated and informed about new legal regulations.)

Word Variants:

• The phrase "au courant" has a similar meaning and is also used to describe someone who is well-informed or up to date.

Different Meanings:

• While "au fait" primarily refers to knowledge or awareness, it can also imply a level of comfort or proficiency with a subject.

Synonyms:

• Informed
• Knowledgeable
• Aware
• Familiar
• Well-versed

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly use "au fait," but you might use phrases like "keep abreast of" or "stay updated" to convey a similar idea.

Summary:

In summary, "au fait" is a useful term in English that describes someone who is well-informed and aware of the latest developments in a particular area.

Academic

Adjective

1. being up to particular standard or level especially in being up to date in knowledge
   • kept abreast of the latest developments
   • constant revision keeps the book au courant
   • always au fait on the latest events
   • up on the news

Synonyms

• abreast
• au courant
• up on