are not known

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are not known" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are speaking of something that is unknown or uncertain. For example: "The exact details of the event are not known."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Their conditions are not known.

The New York Times

Connoisseurs are not known for their modesty.

The New York Times

Yorkshiremen are not known for their profligacy.

The Economist

His reasons for leaving are not known.

The New York Times

Numbers are not known exactly".

The New York Times

The results are not known.

The New York Times

Sokolov's whereabouts are not known.

The Guardian

Chameleons, however, are not known for ferocity.

The New York Times - Science

Headhunters are not known for their prose.

The Guardian - Music

Mr. Balsamo's plans are not known.

The New York Times

However, precise figures are not known.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are not known" to clearly indicate that information is currently unavailable or uncertain, avoiding speculation.

Common error

Avoid using "are not known" excessively in passive voice, as it can make your writing sound vague. Consider rephrasing to highlight the subject about which the information is lacking.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are not known" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase, indicating a state of lacking knowledge or awareness. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically correct and used to express uncertainty or unavailability of information. Examples in Ludwig show its usage across varied subjects where facts are yet to be established.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are not known" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a lack of knowledge or certainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct for expressing that information is currently unavailable. It's most commonly found in scientific and news contexts but also appears in formal business settings. While versatile, avoid overusing it in passive constructions to maintain clarity and impact in your writing. Consider alternatives like "remain uncertain" or "are undetermined" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are still unknown

Adds emphasis on the continued state of being unknown.

are still to be determined

Similar to "are undetermined" but stresses the ongoing process of finding an answer.

remain uncertain

Emphasizes the continuing lack of certainty about something.

are unclear

Indicates a lack of clarity or comprehensibility.

are undetermined

Focuses on the lack of a defined or established value or outcome.

are not established

Focuses on the absence of a firm or definite basis.

are unconfirmed

Highlights that something hasn't been officially verified or substantiated.

have not been revealed

Suggests a deliberate withholding of information.

are yet to be discovered

Emphasizes the potential for future finding or learning.

are shrouded in mystery

Implies a sense of intrigue and difficulty in uncovering the truth.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "are not known" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you might use phrases like "remain uncertain", "are undetermined", or "are unconfirmed" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "are not known" and "are unknown"?

While similar, "are not known" implies that the information may exist but is currently inaccessible or unrevealed. "Are unknown" suggests a more fundamental lack of knowledge or discovery. In many contexts, they are interchangeable.

Is it ever incorrect to use "are not known"?

The phrase "are not known" is grammatically correct. However, avoid overuse in passive constructions, which can weaken your writing. Consider alternative phrasings when possible to improve clarity and impact.

What are some contexts where "are not known" is commonly used?

The phrase "are not known" is frequently used in academic writing, news reports, and formal communications when discussing uncertain or unverified information. Examples include research findings, event details, and historical facts.