SpeakUp

Grammar fix

familiar face

person you recognize

someone whose appearance you know because you have seen them before, even if you don't know them well.

collocationB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • It was nice to see a familiar face at the party when I didn’t know anyone else.daily life
  • In my opinion, having a familiar face in a new environment can make people feel more comfortable and confident.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: a/the familiar face (of someone)

WrongShe is a familiar face for me.

RightShe's a familiar face.

Set phrase — don't add 'for me'.

Patterna/the familiar face (of someone)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff It was reassuring to perceive a recognisable countenance.

Natural It was nice to see a familiar face.

'Recognisable countenance' is absurd; 'familiar face' is the warm, everyday phrase.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • familiar face
    asee ain the crowdaround here

Don't confuse it

Unlike 'close friend,' a 'familiar face' is someone you recognize but may not know personally.

Try it in Daily Speak →