are not completely understood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are not completely understood" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing concepts, phenomena, or situations that lack full clarity or comprehension. Example: "Many aspects of quantum mechanics are not completely understood, leading to ongoing research in the field."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Science & Research

Academia

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The dynamics of global dimming are not completely understood.

The New York Times

However, the endogenous regulatory mechanisms are not completely understood.

Nature

However, the pathophysiological mechanisms are not completely understood.

American Journal of Ophthalmology

However its threat vectors are not completely understood yet.

Computers & Security

The transmission routes of PARV4 are not completely understood.

Journal of Clinical Virology

Even the mechanics of pseudopodial formation are not completely understood.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, the mechanisms responsible for these enhancements are not completely understood.

Polymer

The exact mechanisms that underlie neurotoxicity induced by iron and other metals are not completely understood.

Nature

However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenic effects of α-synuclein are not completely understood.

Nature

The mechanisms by which cells transact information in vivo, though, are not completely understood.

Current Opinion in Chemical Biology

Mechanisms that link high fat diet and inflammation initial stage of HCC are not completely understood.

Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hepatology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "are not completely understood", ensure that the context provides a clear indication of what specific aspects lack understanding. Be precise in delineating the boundaries of current knowledge.

Common error

Avoid using "are not completely understood" as a blanket statement to dismiss a topic entirely. Instead, acknowledge existing knowledge while pinpointing the specific areas that require further investigation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are not completely understood" functions as a qualifier, indicating a limitation in current knowledge or comprehension. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used. It often introduces further discussion about the unknown aspects of a subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

Academia

20%

Science & Research

10%

Less common in

News & Media

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are not completely understood" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate a lack of full knowledge or clarity. As verified by Ludwig AI, it serves as a qualifier, often prompting further investigation and discussion. The phrase is most prevalent in scientific and academic contexts, reflecting its function in acknowledging uncertainty and stimulating research. While alternatives like "are not fully understood" exist, the core meaning remains consistent. When using this phrase, ensure that the specific aspects lacking understanding are clearly identified to avoid overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are not fully understood

Emphasizes the lack of complete understanding, suggesting a significant gap in knowledge.

are not entirely understood

Similar to "are not fully understood", but can imply that some aspects are known, while others remain unclear.

are not completely clear

Focuses on the lack of clarity, suggesting that the subject is ambiguous or vague.

remain unclear

Highlights the continuing state of uncertainty, indicating that the subject has not yet been clarified.

are not completely known

Emphasizes the absence of complete knowledge about the subject.

are poorly understood

Suggests a significant lack of understanding, implying that the subject is difficult to comprehend.

are partially understood

Acknowledges some level of understanding, but indicates that significant gaps remain.

are subject to interpretation

Implies that different understandings or perspectives are possible, due to a lack of definitive knowledge.

are open to debate

Suggests that there is no consensus on the subject and that different viewpoints exist.

lack definitive answers

Highlights the absence of conclusive or certain solutions, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the topic.

FAQs

How can I use "are not completely understood" in a sentence?

Use "are not completely understood" to indicate a lack of full knowledge or clarity about a subject. For example, "The mechanisms of this reaction are not completely understood." It's often followed by an explanation of what is known, and what remains to be discovered.

What can I say instead of "are not completely understood"?

You can use alternatives like "are not fully understood", "remain unclear", or "are poorly understood" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "are not completely understood" or "are not fully understood"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and largely interchangeable. "Are not fully understood" might slightly emphasize a more substantial gap in knowledge, while "are not completely understood" focuses on the absence of total clarity, but the difference is subtle. Choose the one that fits the context best.

When is it appropriate to use "are not completely understood" in academic writing?

It's appropriate in academic writing to acknowledge the limitations of current knowledge. Using "are not completely understood" shows intellectual honesty and opens the door for further research, especially when discussing complex topics.