au courant

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The term "au courant" is a French phrase that has been adopted into English. It is an adjective used to describe someone who is well-informed or up to date, especially regarding current events, trends, or developments. When you say someone is "au courant," it means they are knowledgeable and aware of what is happening in the world around them.

Usage Instructions:

• You typically use "au courant" when talking about someone's knowledge or awareness of recent information.
• It is often used in more formal contexts, such as in business, academia, or discussions about current affairs.

Example:

• "To succeed in the marketing industry, it is important to be au courant with the latest digital trends."
• "She subscribes to various news outlets to stay au courant on global issues."

Advanced Usage:

• In a professional setting, being "au courant" can refer to staying updated with industry standards or practices. For example: "The team held a workshop to ensure that all members are au courant with the new software tools."

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants of "au courant," but you may come across the noun form "courant," which refers to the current state of affairs.
• The phrase "au fait" is similar and means being familiar with or knowledgeable about something, but it is slightly different from "au courant."

Different Meanings:

• In general use, "au courant" strictly refers to being informed. Unlike some words, it does not have multiple meanings.

Synonyms:

• Informed
• Knowledgeable
• Up-to-date
• Aware
• Current

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "au courant," but phrases like "keep in the loop" or "stay updated" convey a similar idea.

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 fait
• up on