it is still unknown

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is still unknown" is a grammatically correct sentence and is widely used in written English.
For example, you can use it in a sentence like this: "The cause of the mysterious outbreak is still unknown."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, it is still unknown how IFT56 binds with its cargos.

eLife

Nevertheless, it is still unknown which comes first.

Electrochimica Acta

However, the structure activity relationship of it is still unknown.

Peptides

It is still unknown at what point a pair-bond is established.

Cornell University

It is still unknown whether their combination can produce synergistic effects.

Clinical Neurophysiology

It is still unknown which is the most accurate method to estimate body composition in CKD.

Journal of Renal Nutrition

However, it is still unknown whether EGFR status differs in metastases compared with primary NSCLC.

Journal of Thoracic Oncology

It is still unknown how the novel virus co-circulates with or outcompetes seasonal viruses.

Journal of Virological Methods

However, it is still unknown whether reactivation of emotional memories during REM sleep strengthens emotional memories.

Neurobiology of Learning and Memory

It is still unknown what this means.

Earth, Planets and Space

It is still unknown, however, if the sporadic cases of CCM also follow this genetic mechanism.

Duke University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is still unknown", ensure the context clearly indicates what specifically remains unknown. Providing a brief explanation of why it's unknown can add clarity.

Common error

Avoid starting too many sentences or paragraphs with "it is still unknown". While grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your sentence structure by rephrasing with synonyms or focusing on the subject matter directly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is still unknown" functions as an impersonal construction used to express a state of uncertainty or lack of knowledge regarding a specific subject. It often introduces a gap in understanding or highlights an area requiring further investigation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

79%

Academia

12%

News & Media

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is still unknown" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, particularly within academic and scientific domains, to denote a continuing lack of knowledge or understanding. As highlighted by Ludwig, it serves the purpose of acknowledging gaps in information, prompting further inquiry, and introducing hypotheses. While versatile, its formal register makes it most appropriate for scholarly and research-oriented contexts. While the phrase is accepted as grammatically correct, writers should be mindful of overuse and consider varying sentence structures to maintain engaging and effective communication. Alternatives like "it remains unknown" can provide a fresh perspective while retaining semantic equivalence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it remains unknown

This alternative replaces 'is still' with 'remains', slightly emphasizing the continuing state of uncertainty.

the answer is still unclear

This alternative shifts the focus to the 'answer' being unclear, rather than the general state of knowledge.

the reasons are not yet understood

This alternative emphasizes the lack of understanding regarding the reasons behind something.

further research is needed to determine

This alternative highlights the necessity for additional investigation to clarify a matter.

the mechanism is not fully elucidated

This alternative, more formal, is typically used in scientific contexts to indicate that a process is not completely understood.

we do not yet know

This alternative uses a more direct and personal tone, indicating a lack of knowledge from the speaker's perspective.

the details are yet to be revealed

This alternative focuses on the 'details' being unrevealed, suggesting that more information will eventually become available.

definitive evidence is lacking

This alternative emphasizes the absence of conclusive proof or support for something.

the situation is ambiguous

This alternative suggests that the situation is unclear and open to multiple interpretations.

more information is required

This alternative highlights the need for additional data or facts to gain a better understanding.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is still unknown" in academic writing?

In academic writing, you can use more formal alternatives such as "it remains unknown", "the mechanism is not fully elucidated", or "definitive evidence is lacking".

Is "it is still unknown" appropriate for formal contexts?

Yes, "it is still unknown" is suitable for formal contexts. However, consider using stronger or more precise language depending on the specific situation. For instance, in scientific writing, you might prefer phrases like "further research is needed to determine".

What's the difference between "it is unknown" and "it is still unknown"?

The phrase "it is unknown" simply indicates a lack of knowledge. Adding "still" as in "it is still unknown" emphasizes that the lack of knowledge persists over time, often implying previous attempts to find an answer.

What are some less formal ways to say "it is still unknown"?

In less formal contexts, you can use phrases like "we do not yet know" or "the details are yet to be revealed". These alternatives are more conversational but may not be appropriate for formal or academic writing.