it is unknown whether

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is unknown whether" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when there is uncertainty about something. Example sentence: It is unknown whether the new vaccine will be effective in treating the virus.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is unknown whether related hawks stay together when migrating.

Cornell University

It is unknown whether either family will take questions afterwards.

The Guardian

It is unknown whether Chavez had any guns.

The Guardian

It is unknown whether removals affect video searches.

The Guardian - Tech

It is unknown whether the defense will actually call Taylor.

The Guardian

It is unknown whether those allegations will be denied.

The Guardian

It is unknown whether he is currently detained.

The Guardian

However, it is unknown whether VLPOGAL neurons contribute to thermoregulation.

Nature

It is unknown whether Mr. Mueller will go that route.

The New York Times

It is unknown whether these agents were eliciting CSS.

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

It is unknown whether these findings may modify cardiovascular risk.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that the subject following "it is unknown whether" is specific and well-defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "it is unknown whether" can sound overly formal in casual conversation or informal writing. Consider using simpler alternatives like "we don't know if" or "it's unclear whether" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is unknown whether" functions as an introductory clause to express uncertainty or a lack of information regarding a particular situation or condition. It sets the stage for a question or statement about something that is not yet established or confirmed. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

32%

Academia

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is unknown whether" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase to introduce uncertainty or a lack of knowledge. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Predominantly found in academic, scientific, and news contexts, its register leans towards formal and neutral tones. While numerous alternatives exist, such as "it is not known whether" or "it remains unclear whether", the choice often depends on the desired level of formality or emphasis. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in the subsequent clause to avoid ambiguity and consider simpler alternatives for informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is not known whether

Uses "not known" instead of "unknown", maintaining the same meaning.

it remains unclear whether

Emphasizes that the uncertainty persists, adding a sense of duration.

it is uncertain whether

Replaces "unknown" with "uncertain", indicating doubt or lack of sureness.

it is unclear if

Uses "unclear" instead of "unknown" and "if" instead of "whether", simplifying the structure.

it is indeterminate whether

Employs "indeterminate" for a more formal tone, suggesting that a conclusion cannot be reached.

we do not know whether

Shifts to a first-person perspective, directly stating the lack of knowledge.

it hasn't been determined whether

Focuses on the lack of a decision or conclusion, highlighting the process.

the answer is not known whether

Frames the uncertainty around the absence of an answer, changing the sentence structure.

the question of whether remains open

Highlights that the matter is still under consideration, deviating from the direct statement of uncertainty.

it's a mystery whether

Uses a more colloquial term ("mystery") to express uncertainty, making it less formal.

FAQs

How to use "it is unknown whether" in a sentence?

Use "it is unknown whether" to introduce a statement of uncertainty. For example, "It is unknown whether the treatment will be effective."

What can I say instead of "it is unknown whether"?

You can use alternatives like "it is not known whether", "it remains unclear whether", or "it is uncertain whether depending on the context.

Which is correct, "it is unknown whether" or "it is not known whether"?

Both "it is unknown whether" and "it is not known whether" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably to express uncertainty.

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

"It is unknown whether" and "it is unclear whether" are very similar in meaning. "Unknown" emphasizes a lack of knowledge, while "unclear" suggests a lack of understanding or clarity. Both can often be used interchangeably.