English Reference
noun

awareness

n.
US /əˈwɛɹnəs/ UK /ɐwˈeənəs/ aware·ness

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    knowing that something exists or understanding a situation.

    the state of being conscious of something; the ability to perceive or be cognizant of a fact or situation.

    Simple

    The campaign aims to raise public awareness of the importance of recycling.

    In context

    Environmental groups are working to increase public awareness of the long-term consequences of plastic pollution in our oceans.

    Usage

    Commonly used with the verbs 'raise', 'increase', or 'heighten'.

    Pitfall
    He has a great awareness about the problem. He has a great awareness of the problem.

    Use the preposition 'of' after awareness to show what someone knows about.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical

    the state of being awake and able to see, hear, and feel what is happening around you.

    the state or level of consciousness where sensory data can be confirmed by an observer.

    Simple

    The patient began to regain awareness a few hours after the surgery.

    In context

    The medical team monitored the patient's fluctuating levels of awareness following the traumatic head injury.

    Usage

    Often used in medical or psychological contexts to describe a state of being.

    unconsciousness

Usage general awareness · increased awareness · increasing awareness

But if we raise awareness among market vendors, they can themselves donate a bucket or two for handwashing ,” he said.

UN News· 10 Aug 2026

Each year, awareness campaigns run urging parents not to buy their kids an e-scooter for Christmas.

BBC News· 22 Jul 2026

From aware + -ness.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated