Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
is still virtually unknown
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "is still virtually unknown" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that remains largely unrecognized or unfamiliar to the public or a specific audience, despite the passage of time. Example: "Despite its potential, the technology is still virtually unknown to most consumers."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Encyclopedias
Alternative expressions(3)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
The term "user experience," which looms large in the minds of the best electronic-content creators, is still virtually unknown in the commercial world of print publishing.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
Collected in the early 13th century by Eike von Repgow (also spelled Repkow, Repchow, or Repgau), a knight and a judge, it was written originally in Latin and later in German and showed little Roman influence, largely because Roman law was still virtually unknown at that time and had not penetrated German law.
Encyclopedias
For that matter, even many important and influential late medieval philosophers who did belong to religious orders are still virtually unknown or at least woefully understudied today, despite the labors of generations of scholars.
Science
"They are still virtually intact.
News & Media
He is still a virtual unknown.
News & Media
Much is still unknown about the photograph.
News & Media
It is still an unknown language.
News & Media
It is still an unknown.
Science
Although the function of ymgC is still unknown, ymgA and ymgB strongly promote the synthesis of colanic acid, and virtually eliminate the expression of adhesive curli fimbriae genes.
Science
Much is still unknown.
News & Media
Her fate is still unknown.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "is still virtually unknown" to emphasize that something has remained obscure despite the passage of time or opportunities for recognition. This implies a degree of surprise or concern about the lack of awareness.
Common error
Avoid using "is still virtually unknown" when something has some level of recognition or awareness. The phrase is most effective when describing something genuinely obscure or unrecognized, not merely less popular or understood.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "is still virtually unknown" functions as a descriptive expression, typically used to characterize a subject that lacks widespread recognition or awareness. It suggests that despite the passage of time or relevant exposure, the subject remains largely obscure.
Frequent in
News & Media
36%
Science
34%
Encyclopedias
6%
Less common in
Wiki
2%
Formal & Business
0%
Academia
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "is still virtually unknown" effectively conveys that a subject lacks broad recognition or awareness, despite factors that might suggest otherwise. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and applicability across various contexts, notably news, science, and encyclopedic content. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject is genuinely obscure rather than merely less popular. Alternatives like "remains largely unrecognized" or "is still largely unfamiliar" can provide nuanced variations, but always check that the meaning suits the situation.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
remains largely unrecognized
Focuses on the lack of recognition over time, emphasizing continued obscurity.
is yet to be widely acknowledged
Highlights that acknowledgement has not occurred, but implies the possibility of future recognition.
is still largely unfamiliar
Emphasizes the lack of familiarity rather than outright lack of knowledge.
hasn't gained widespread recognition
Highlights that the object/subject didn't spread to a large audience.
is relatively obscure
Focuses on the object/subject being shadowed or hidden from spotlight.
is not commonly known
Indicates a lack of common knowledge, suggesting limited public awareness.
is still mostly unheard of
Emphasizes that few people have heard of the object/subject so far.
is largely unstudied
Specifically refers to a lack of academic or research attention.
remains undiscovered by many
Highlights that this object/subject hasn't been found or known by the majority.
has not permeated public consciousness
Suggests a failure to enter general public awareness or understanding.
FAQs
What does "is still virtually unknown" mean?
The phrase "is still virtually unknown" means that something remains largely unrecognized or unfamiliar to the public or a specific group, even after a certain period or despite opportunities for discovery or recognition.
How can I use "is still virtually unknown" in a sentence?
You can use it to describe a technology, concept, or person that has not gained widespread recognition. For example, "Despite its potential, this technology "is still virtually unknown" to most consumers."
What are some alternatives to "is still virtually unknown"?
You can use alternatives like "remains largely unrecognized", "is still largely unfamiliar", or "is yet to be widely acknowledged" depending on the specific context.
Which is more appropriate, "is still virtually unknown" or "is completely unknown"?
"Is still virtually unknown" implies a degree of surprise that something hasn't been discovered, whereas "is completely unknown" suggests an absolute lack of awareness. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the extent of awareness; "is still virtually unknown" suggests that something should be known but it is not.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested