known commodity

USAGE SUMMARY

"known commodity" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is widely known or understood. For example: "The smartphone market is a known commodity and everyone understands how it works."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

She is a known commodity, having run unsuccessfully against Mr. Taylor in 1997.

The New York Times

"My sense is McCain's a known commodity, and people are just kind of settling on him".

The New York Times

While Defoe was a known commodity, he was 31 years old when joined MLS.

The Guardian - Sport

But as an oft-watched college star and a known commodity, he is in the minority.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Letts's "August: Osage County" is a known commodity to me.

The New York Times

Kaat is a known commodity; quietly and without an act, he is one of baseball's smartest analysts.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Both got pretty big bounces despite being known commodities.

The New York Times

"Each of these people are known commodities and people on the Hill and you and others know where they are coming from and their philosophies," he said.

The New York Times

Movies are a collaborative exercise that requires a huge capital investment based on known commodities, so to get a movie made it is often more important who is in it than what it's about.

The New York Times

Traditional stores have functional distribution systems and names that are considered by consumers to be known commodities.

Forbes

While you might not need to visit in person if you produce well known commodities, things change for more innovative products.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "known commodity" when you want to convey that something is not new or uncertain; it has a track record and its qualities are generally understood. It is useful in scenarios involving risk assessment or decision-making.

Common error

While "known commodity" is suitable for business or analytical writing, it can sound cliché in creative writing. Opt for more descriptive language to add originality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "known commodity" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object. It describes something that is already recognized or well-established, reducing uncertainty or risk. Ludwig AI validates its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sports

21%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "known commodity" is a noun phrase that signifies something well-established and understood, often implying reliability and predictability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used. Predominantly found in news and business contexts, it carries a neutral to professional tone. When writing, remember that while effective in analytical contexts, it may lack the originality needed for creative pieces. Alternatives such as "established entity" or "reliable resource" can offer a fresh perspective while retaining the core meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

recognized entity

Focuses on broad recognition and acceptance of the subject.

established entity

Focuses on the firm establishment and recognition of the subject.

well-understood element

Highlights the comprehensive understanding of the subject.

familiar quantity

Emphasizes the known and predictable nature of the subject.

proven performer

Emphasizes the subject's history of successful performance.

predictable asset

Highlights the reliability and anticipated performance of the subject.

consistent factor

Focuses on the subject's stability and unchanging nature.

certain bet

Highlights a high level of confidence or certainty about subject.

reliable resource

Stresses the dependability and value of the subject as a source.

identifiable component

Highlights the subject's clear and recognizable attributes.

FAQs

How can I use "known commodity" in a sentence?

You can use "known commodity" to describe something with a well-established reputation or predictable performance. For example, "Investing in established companies is often seen as choosing a "known commodity" over a risky startup".

What's a good alternative to "known commodity"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "established entity", "familiar quantity", or "reliable resource".

Is "known commodity" formal or informal?

"Known commodity" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but is most frequently used in business or news reporting where a neutral and objective tone is needed.

What does it mean to say someone is a "known commodity"?

Saying someone is a "known commodity" suggests that their abilities, track record, and likely performance are well-understood, reducing uncertainty about their future actions or achievements. For example, a politician might be described that way.