it is not unknown for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is not unknown for" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is used to express that it is common or not unexpected for something to happen. For example, you could say, "It is not unknown for people to get confused by the unfamiliar words used in contracts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

At times, when strolling along its admittedly wide pavements, it is not unknown for pedestrians to run into a pushchair traffic jam.

Independent

It is not unknown for trips and conferences in exotic locations to also be offered.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is not unknown for people in a critical condition with the disease to recover.

The Guardian

And it is not unknown for new teams to do well in the Champions League.

The New York Times

It is not unknown for two different operators to give you two different numbers for the same listing -- both wrong.

The New York Times

Where they smoke in restaurants and where it is not unknown for people to get roaringly drunk at dinner parties.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

But sooner or later a deputy may wonder if it is time to step up and it isn't unknown for deputy to gun for the top job.

The Guardian

He is a particularly aggressive parent (it isn't unknown for him to have a go at other parents if he thinks their children are upsetting his son).

The Guardian

And it isn't unknown for a child to forget the racket in the rush of getting to the lesson on time!

WikiHow

While rare, it's not unknown for bartenders to reach for one.

The New York Times

It's not unknown for lawyers in Pakistan to be assassinated.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "it is not unknown for" to introduce a fact or situation that might surprise some but is actually fairly common. This can add a layer of nuance to your writing, suggesting that you're aware of common misconceptions.

Common error

While "it is not unknown for" is grammatically correct, overuse can lead to passive voice and weaker writing. Consider rephrasing to a more direct and active construction to improve clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not unknown for" functions as an introductory expression to present a situation or occurrence that is fairly common or expected, often despite potential assumptions to the contrary. As supported by Ludwig AI, this phrase adds a layer of nuance by suggesting an awareness of common misconceptions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

11%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is not unknown for" serves as an introductory phrase to introduce facts or occurrences that are fairly common, but potentially surprising or not widely recognized. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, it's essential to be mindful of potential over use of passive voice. Alternatives such as "it is not uncommon for" and "it frequently happens that" can provide stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is not unusual for

Replaces "unknown" with "unusual", suggesting the event is not out of the ordinary.

it is not uncommon for

Substitutes "unknown" with "uncommon", indicating the event happens with some regularity.

it's not unusual to

A contraction of "it is not unusual to", making it slightly more informal.

it's not uncommon to

A contraction of "it is not uncommon to", offering a slightly more casual tone.

it is not rare for

Indicates the event is not a rare occurrence.

it is not unheard of for

Suggests the event is possible, even if not widely known.

it is often the case that

Uses a different structure to express that something frequently happens.

it frequently happens that

Emphasizes the frequency of the event.

it is a common occurrence that

Highlights the event as a typical or normal situation.

it is typical for

Indicates that the event aligns with expected behavior or patterns.

FAQs

How can I use "it is not unknown for" in a sentence?

You can use "it is not unknown for" to introduce something that is common or happens frequently, even if some people may not be aware of it. For example, "It is not unknown for students to feel stressed during exam season."

What are some alternatives to "it is not unknown for"?

Alternatives include "it is not unusual for", "it is not uncommon for", or "it frequently happens that", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "it is not unknown for" or "it is common for"?

Both are correct, but "it is not unknown for" implies a degree of surprise or that the fact is not widely recognized. "It is common for" is a more straightforward statement of frequency.

What does "it is not unheard of for" mean, and how is it different from "it is not unknown for"?

"It is not unheard of for" suggests that something is possible but perhaps rare, while "it is not unknown for" indicates something is fairly common. Thus, "it is not unheard of for" is weaker than "it is not unknown for".