When expressing the idea of having known something or someone in the past but no longer having that knowledge or familiarity, there are various phrases and expressions you can use. The way you convey this concept can differ depending on the level of formality and the regional variation. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of saying “I used to know” while providing tips, examples, and regional variations as necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
Formal language is typically used in professional settings or when addressing someone of higher authority. When using formal expressions to say “I used to know,” you can employ the following phrases:
- “I was previously acquainted with”: This phrase is a polite and formal way to indicate that you were familiar with something or someone in the past. It carries a sense of respect and implies a level of professionalism. Example: “I was previously acquainted with the company’s former CEO.”
- “I had previous knowledge of”: This expression emphasizes that you possessed knowledge about a subject or person in the past. It suggests that you were well-informed or had a solid understanding before. Example: “I had previous knowledge of the project’s objectives and requirements.”
- “I was formerly familiar with”: Using this phrase indicates that you had familiarity with something or someone in the past. It suggests you were acquainted or well-acquainted with the subject matter. Example: “I was formerly familiar with the customs and traditions of that culture.”
Informal Expressions
Informal language is commonly used in casual conversations or among friends. When opting for a more casual approach to saying “I used to know,” you can utilize the following expressions:
- “I used to know”: This is a straightforward and commonly used phrase in informal settings. It is simple and direct, conveying the idea that you used to have knowledge or familiarity with something or someone. Example: “I used to know how to play the guitar, but I’ve forgotten most of it.”
- “I used to be familiar with”: This expression is similar to the formal “I was formerly familiar with” but takes on a more casual tone. It implies that you were familiar with something or someone in the past but may not remember as much now. Example: “I used to be familiar with the neighborhood, but it has changed a lot over the years.”
- “Back in the day, I knew”: This phrase adds a nostalgic touch to the statement, indicating that the knowledge or familiarity you had belongs to an earlier period. It is commonly used when reminiscing about the past. Example: “Back in the day, I knew all the lyrics to their songs.”
Regional Variations
While the expressions mentioned earlier can generally be used across various English-speaking regions, certain regions have their own unique variations. Here are a few examples:
American English: In American English, it is common to use the phrase “I used to know” in both formal and casual contexts. However, in informal settings, some speakers may opt for a contraction, saying “I used to know” as “I usedta know” or “I useta know.”
British English: In British English, the expression “I used to know” is widely used in both formal and informal situations. There are no significant variations specific to British English for this particular phrase.
Tips and Examples
Regardless of whether you choose a formal or informal expression, here are some tips and examples to help you effectively convey the idea of “I used to know”:
- Be specific: When using any of these expressions, try to provide specific details about what or whom you used to know. This adds clarity to your statement and helps the listener understand the context better.
- Use appropriate tenses: Depending on the context, you may need to adjust the tense of your sentence. For instance, if you are referring to something you used to know in the distant past, you can use the past simple tense. If the time frame is relatively recent, the past continuous tense may be more suitable.
- Offer explanations: If relevant, provide additional information about why you no longer have the knowledge or familiarity you once had. This can help the listener understand the reasons behind your statement.
Examples:
Formal: “I was previously acquainted with the company’s former CEO, but I haven’t been in contact with them for several years.”
Informal: “I used to know how to speak French fluently, but I haven’t practiced in a long time, so I’ve forgotten most of it.”
Remember, the choice of expression depends on the context, relationship, and level of formality you want to convey. Consider these factors when deciding which phrase is most appropriate for your specific situation.
