is unknown but

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is unknown but" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing a statement that acknowledges a lack of knowledge about a subject while also indicating that there is additional information or a contrasting point to follow. Example: "The cause of the phenomenon is unknown but researchers are actively investigating potential explanations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The real origin is unknown, but Parnell is involved.

The New York Times - Sports

The agenda is unknown, but the mood is likely to be tense.

The Guardian

The cause of the collision is unknown, but police say both vehicles may have been speeding.

The Guardian

The future is unknown, but for one moment we have all wept together.

The New York Times

The effect of these traces is unknown, but the concern is about the unexpected.

The New York Times

His date of birth is unknown, but he was said to be 59.

The New York Times - Arts

The number of congregations with Web sites is unknown, but it is clearly growing.

The New York Times

The total number of the dead is unknown, but Bangladesh's official estimate is three million.

The New Yorker

Zawahiri's location is unknown, but he was last believed to be in Pakistan.

The Guardian

The motive is unknown, but police are investigating whether it was a hate crime.

The Guardian

It is unknown but bounded.

Journal of the Franklin Institute

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is unknown but", ensure that the "but" clause introduces a related or contrasting piece of information, speculation, or direction of inquiry. This maintains logical flow and provides additional context despite the initial uncertainty.

Common error

Avoid using "is unknown but" when the "but" clause does not offer a genuine contrast or additional insight. For example, avoid saying "The cause is unknown but further study is needed" if the need for further study is obvious from the fact that the cause is unknown. Instead, specify what kind of further study, or what the existing information suggests.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is unknown but" functions as a transitional phrase, connecting a statement of uncertainty or lack of knowledge with a contrasting or qualifying statement. As Ludwig AI explains, it introduces additional information despite the initial lack of clarity. The examples show its usage in various contexts, from scientific research to news reports.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

43%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is unknown but" serves as a crucial connector in writing, allowing for the acknowledgement of uncertainty while simultaneously providing additional context or contrasting information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and commonly used. Predominantly found in scientific and news-related articles, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. When utilizing this phrase, ensure that the "but" clause introduces a meaningful contrast or related insight. Although seemingly simple, mastering the use of "is unknown but" enhances clarity and analytical depth in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remains uncertain however

Replaces "is unknown" with "remains uncertain" and "but" with "however", resulting in a slightly more formal tone.

the details are unclear though

Substitutes "is unknown" with "the details are unclear" and "but" with "though", offering a more casual alternative.

it's not certain nevertheless

Replaces "is unknown" with "it's not certain" and "but" with "nevertheless", creating a more emphatic contrast.

the answer is unclear yet

Substitutes "is unknown" with "the answer is unclear" and "but" with "yet", which can imply anticipation of future clarification.

the origin is obscure although

Replaces "is unknown" with "the origin is obscure" and "but" with "although", resulting in a slightly more formal and literary tone.

the cause remains a mystery, however

Emphasizes the unknown aspect using "remains a mystery" and uses "however" instead of "but" for contrast.

while the reason is not fully understood

More explicitly states the lack of complete understanding, replacing "is unknown" with "the reason is not fully understood".

despite our lack of knowledge

Focuses on the absence of knowledge as a premise, leading into a contrasting statement.

the specifics elude us nonetheless

Uses more sophisticated vocabulary ("elude", "nonetheless") to convey the unknown status and the subsequent contrast.

though not fully elucidated

This phrase directly addresses the lack of clarity or explanation, presenting a formal tone that highlights the incomplete understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "is unknown but" in a sentence?

Use "is unknown but" to introduce a statement of uncertainty followed by a contrasting or related piece of information. For example, "The exact cause of the disease "is unknown but" genetic factors are suspected".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "is unknown but"?

Alternatives include phrases like "remains unclear however", "the details are unclear though", or "it's not certain nevertheless", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "is unknown but"?

No, "is unknown but" should not start a sentence. It typically connects two parts of a clause, indicating that something is not known but there is related information to consider. Starting a sentence this way would be grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "is unknown but" and "is unknown however"?

"Is unknown but" and "is unknown however" are similar in meaning, both introducing a contrast after acknowledging a lack of knowledge. "However" tends to be slightly more formal than "but", and can sometimes interrupt the flow of the sentence more noticeably.