a known quantity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a known quantity" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to something or someone that is familiar or predictable in terms of behavior, performance, or characteristics. Example: "In the world of finance, investing in established companies is often seen as a safer bet because they are a known quantity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"I'm a known quantity.

The New York Times

He's more of a known quantity.

The New Yorker

"We have a known quantity.

The New York Times

I started with a known quantity.

The New York Times - Tech

Clinton is more of a known quantity.

The Guardian

For him, Martin is a known quantity.

The New York Times - Sports

Being a known quantity is preferable to being an outsider.

The Guardian

Tynes has the advantage of being a known quantity.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Iliescu has the advantage of being a known quantity.

The New York Times

She attributed her hiring to being a known quantity.

The New York Times

It helped that Frears was a known quantity.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When assessing risks or making predictions, use "a known quantity" to emphasize the reliability and predictability of a factor or person. For example: 'Choosing an established supplier is often preferable because they are a known quantity.'

Common error

Avoid assuming that because something or someone is "a known quantity", they are automatically the best choice. Familiarity doesn't always equal competence or suitability for a task; consider other factors as well.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a known quantity" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes someone or something whose characteristics, abilities, or behavior are well-understood and predictable. Ludwig AI shows various examples where this phrase is used to describe people, products, or concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a known quantity" is a noun phrase used to describe something or someone whose characteristics are well-understood and predictable. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media contexts. It conveys reliability and familiarity, often influencing decision-making. Alternatives like "familiar entity" or "reliable factor" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Be aware of the potential pitfall of overvaluing familiarity at the expense of other important considerations like competence or innovation. As Ludwig's analysis shows, the expression has a neutral register, but remember to use it in context, especially in news and scientific articles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

familiar entity

Replaces the more quantitative term with a simpler description of being well-recognized or understood.

reliable factor

Focuses on the dependability aspect, highlighting that the subject can be counted on.

predictable element

Emphasizes the capacity to foresee its actions or behavior.

established presence

Indicates a long-standing and recognized position within a specific context.

consistent performer

Highlights the reliable level of output or achievement associated with the subject.

well-understood aspect

Shifts the focus to the comprehensibility and clarity of the subject.

certain outcome

Suggests that the result or effect of the subject is assured and not subject to significant variation.

foreseeable consequence

Like 'predictable element', this highlights the ability to anticipate the subject's effects.

dependable variable

Emphasizes that the subject can be relied upon in different situations.

trustworthy agent

Highlights the reliability and integrity of the subject within its role or function.

FAQs

How can I use "a known quantity" in a sentence?

Use "a known quantity" to describe someone or something whose qualities or performance are well-established and predictable. For example: "The incumbent is "a known quantity", while the challenger is an unknown risk."

What does it mean to be "a known quantity"?

To be "a known quantity" means that your abilities, characteristics, and behavior are well-understood and predictable, leaving little room for surprise.

What are some alternatives to saying "a known quantity"?

Alternatives to "a known quantity" include "familiar entity", "reliable factor", or "predictable element", depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

In what situations is it beneficial to be "a known quantity"?

Being "a known quantity" can be beneficial in situations where trust, stability, and predictability are highly valued, such as in leadership positions or long-term partnerships.