Cool MateUnknown
UK /["/ˌʌnˈnəʊn/"]/US /["/ˌʌnˈnəʊn/"]/
Definition
not known or identified
In simple words: Not known or familiar.
Examples
- The mysterious book contained many unknown secrets.
- His unknown origins intrigued the researchers.
- The scientist was faced with several unknown variables in the experiment.
- An unknown figure stood in the shadows, watching the scene unfold.
- The destination was unknown, adding to the excitement of the journey.
- Despite his efforts, the reason for her departure remained unknown.
- They discovered an unknown species of plant in the remote rainforest.
- He felt a sense of dread about the unknown challenges ahead.
Usage notes
Used to describe something that is not recognized or identified. Commonly used in everyday conversation and writing. Avoid when the context is clear without it.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Think of 'unkown' as 'unknown' — imagine a detective trying to solve an unfamiliar case.
Collocations
- be
- remain
- completely
- entirely
- quite
- to
- for parts unknown
- to parts unknown
- for reasons unknown
- be
- remain
- completely
- entirely
- quite
- to
- for parts unknown
- to parts unknown
- for reasons unknown
- be
- remain
- completely
- entirely
- quite
- to
- for parts unknown
- to parts unknown
- for reasons unknown
Synonyms
- unfamiliar
- unidentified
- strange
- unrecognized
Antonyms
- known
- familiar
- certain
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'unkown' — incorrect spelling.
- Using it in a sentence where something is actually known.
- Misplacing it in a sentence making it unclear.