become aware of
/bɪˈkʌm əˈweər ɒv/
Meaning
This phrase means to start noticing or realizing something that you were not previously conscious of. It can refer to physical sensations, facts, or situations. The tone is neutral and can be used in both everyday conversations and formal writing.
Examples
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She slowly became aware of a strange tapping sound coming from the window.
She slowly became aware of a strange tapping sound coming from the window.
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As I grew older, I became aware of how much my parents had sacrificed for me.
As I grew older, I became aware of how much my parents had sacrificed for me.
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Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact of plastic packaging.
Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact of plastic packaging.
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He suddenly became aware of someone standing right behind him.
He suddenly became aware of someone standing right behind him.
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We need to help people become aware of the warning signs of mental burnout.
We need to help people become aware of the warning signs of mental burnout.
Common Mistakes
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✗ I became aware about the problem yesterday.
✓ I became aware of the problem yesterday.
The preposition 'of' is always used after 'aware', not 'about' or 'with'.
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✗ He became aware that someone following him.
✓ He became aware that someone was following him.
If you use 'that' instead of 'of', you must follow it with a full clause containing a subject and a verb.
Related Expressions
Practice
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It took me a few minutes to ___ the cold draft in the room.
💡 Start noticing.
Show answer
become aware of
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Drivers must ___ the speed limits when entering school zones.
💡 Realize or pay attention to.
Show answer
become aware of