it is not known

USAGE SUMMARY

"It is not known" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you would like to express uncertainty about something. For example: "It is not known exactly how long the pandemic will last."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is not known whether he responded.

The New York Times

It is not known further north.

Cornell University

It is not known if she did.

The Guardian

It is not known who killed Leila.

The Guardian

It is not known how they voted.

The New York Times

It is not known whether Dung appealed.

The Guardian

It is not known where these documents originated.

Columbia University

It is not known if song repertoire varies between individuals.

Cornell University

It is not known when the expected drainage will occur.

Cornell University

It is not known to metastasize to the spine.

The Spine Journal

It is not known what the surveys uncovered.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is not known" to objectively state a lack of information, avoiding speculation or personal opinions. This phrase is appropriate for formal writing and reports where accuracy is paramount.

Common error

Avoid using "it is not known" in casual conversations or informal writing where simpler phrases like "we don't know" or "I'm not sure" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not known" functions as an impersonal construction used to express a lack of definitive information or certainty. It serves to highlight the absence of knowledge about a particular subject, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is not known" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves to express uncertainty or a lack of information. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and wide applicability across various contexts. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and academic sources, it maintains a neutral to formal register. When seeking alternative expressions, options such as "it remains uncertain" or "the answer is unclear" can provide similar meanings. While versatile, it’s best to avoid overuse in informal settings, opting instead for simpler expressions like "we don’t know". This phrase is a powerful tool for objective reporting and stating facts when information is lacking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's not yet clear

Indicates that understanding or clarity has not been achieved so far.

it remains uncertain

Emphasizes the continuing lack of certainty about something.

the answer is unclear

Focuses on the lack of a clear resolution or answer to a question.

the facts are unknown

Highlights that the specific details or facts are not available.

it's still a mystery

Implies that something is puzzling and has not been explained.

details are lacking

Indicates that there is a deficiency in the amount of information available.

information is unavailable

States that the necessary information cannot be accessed or obtained.

the situation is unresolved

Emphasizes that the issue or situation has not been settled or clarified.

the truth remains hidden

Suggests that the actual truth is concealed or undiscovered.

we have no information

Directly states the absence of any knowledge or data.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is not known" in a more concise way?

Alternatives include "unknown", "unclear", or "uncertain" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "it is not known" and "it is unknown"?

"It is not known" implies that there is a possibility of future discovery, whereas "it is unknown" simply states a lack of current knowledge. They are often interchangeable, but the former suggests more active inquiry.

Is "it is not known" formal or informal?

"It is not known" is generally considered a formal phrase suitable for academic, scientific, or professional writing. In casual conversation, phrases like "we don't know" are more appropriate.

How to use "it is not known" in a sentence?

You can use "it is not known" to introduce a fact that is currently uncertain or unverified. For example, "It is not known whether the suspect acted alone."